Elena Rybakina is set to face Emma Raducanu in the third round of the U.S. Open, a matchup that brings both competitive fire and personal familiarity. The two players, who teamed up for doubles earlier this season, now find themselves on opposite sides of the net in singles action at Flushing Meadows.
A Friendship Turned Rivalry
Their doubles partnership at the Mubadala Citi DC Open earlier this year gave fans a glimpse of their chemistry off the court. Though they rarely text due to busy schedules, Rybakina described Raducanu as “a really nice girl outside the court.” Now, that camaraderie will be set aside as they battle for a spot in the fourth round.
Respect and Readiness
Rybakina spoke candidly about the upcoming clash, acknowledging Raducanu’s recent form. “She’s a tough competitor. She’s been playing really well lately. It’s definitely gonna be a difficult battle,” she said. The Kazakh star, currently ranked No. 10, knows she’ll need to raise her level and sharpen her game to overcome the challenge.
Focus on Form and Execution
After a hard-fought win against Tereza Valentova in the previous round, Rybakina is looking to build on her momentum. “I’ll try to do my best, improve form today. Let’s see how it goes,” she added. With both players having secured convincing wins in the early rounds, the stage is set for a compelling encounter between two Grand Slam champions.
A Match with Layers
Beyond rankings and statistics, this match carries emotional weight. Their shared history, mutual respect, and individual ambitions make it more than just another round. For Rybakina, it’s a chance to continue her pursuit of a deep run in New York. For Raducanu, it’s an opportunity to reclaim the spotlight where she first stunned the tennis world.
Rybakina at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2025
Ranked no.10, the Kazakhstani has achieved a 43-16 win-loss record in 2025. The Kazakhstani is now having a run at the U.S. Open where she overcame the world no.335 Julieta Pareja 6-3 6-0 and the world no.96 Tereza Valentova 6-3 7-6(7)
.Elena Rybakina will take on the world no.36 Emma Raducanu in the 3rd round. Their record is 1-0 for Rybakina.
Elena clinched 1 title in 2025 in Strasbourg.
Elena won 9 titles in her career: 4 on hard courts, 4 on clay courts and 1 on grass courts. (See the list of her titles)
Raducanu at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2025
At the moment ranked no.36, the Brit owns a 26-17 match record in 2025. Emma is currently having a run at the U.S. Open where she conquered the world no.128 Ena Shibahara 6-1 6-2 and the world no.149 Janice Tjen 6-2 6-1.
Emma Raducanu will fight against the world no.10 Elena Rybakina in the 3rd round. Their head to head is 1-0 for Rybakina.
Elena Rybakina and Emma Raducanu faced off only 1 time. Their current head to head is 1-0 for Rybakina.