Elena Rybakina delivered one of the most emphatic performances of the 2025 WTA Finals so far, defeating world number two Iga Swiatek 3-6, 6-1, 6-0 in group stage play in Riyadh. After dropping the first set, the Kazakh player found her rhythm and overwhelmed Swiatek with relentless power and precision. The final set, a 6-0 sweep, marked a rare collapse for the Polish star, who committed 36 unforced errors across the last two sets.

Rybakina’s reaction and rising confidence

Speaking after the match, Rybakina acknowledged her recent form and the momentum she’s built heading into the tournament. “I’ve been playing really well the last few weeks. I’m really excited for my next match. Hopefully I can bring the same intensity,” she said during her post-match interview.

The win was Rybakina’s second in a row at the Finals, following a straight-sets victory over Amanda Anisimova. With this result, she now leads the Serena Williams Group and is on the verge of qualifying for the semifinals.

Breaking a personal streak

Before this match, Rybakina had lost all four of her previous encounters with Swiatek in 2025. Her ability to turn the tide in such dominant fashion was a breakthrough moment. “It was difficult to be down, but in the second set I pushed myself, the serve improved. Really happy that I stepped in and played better in each point,” Rybakina told reporters after the match.

Swiatek struggles with errors

Swiatek started strong, taking the first set 6-3, but her game unraveled as Rybakina raised her level. The Polish star’s 36 unforced errors contrasted sharply with Rybakina’s 17, highlighting the shift in control. Despite her early lead, Swiatek was unable to adjust to Rybakina’s aggressive baseline play and improved serving.

Looking ahead in Riyadh

Rybakina’s performance has made her one of the standout players of the tournament so far. With her confidence high and her game firing on all cylinders, she will be a formidable opponent for anyone in the knockout rounds. Swiatek, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly to keep her semifinal hopes alive.