Elena Rybakina delivered a commanding performance at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, defeating world number two Iga Swiatek 3-6, 6-1, 6-0. After a strong start from Swiatek, Rybakina took control of the match with aggressive baseline play and consistent serving, winning twelve of the final thirteen games.
Swiatek’s frustration boils over
At the conclusion of the match, Swiatek walked past the chair umpire without offering the customary handshake. The gesture drew attention from fans and commentators, as it is rare for the Polish star to break from protocol. Reports suggest Swiatek was upset over several line calls during the second set, particularly one that led to a crucial break of serve.
No official explanation
Swiatek did not address the incident directly in her post-match comments, focusing instead on her performance. However, sources close to her team indicated that she felt the officiating lacked consistency. The WTA has not issued a statement regarding the incident.
Rybakina’s momentum builds
For Rybakina, the win marked her second straight victory in the group stage and placed her in a strong position to qualify for the semifinals. It was also her first win over Swiatek this season. “I pushed myself, the serve improved. Really happy that I stepped in and played better in each point,” Rybakina said after the match.
Swiatek’s next steps
Swiatek will need to win her final group match to keep her hopes of advancing alive. The loss and the handshake controversy have added pressure, but she remains one of the tournament’s top contenders. Her response in the coming days will be closely watched.
Iga Swiatek in 2025
Ranked world no.2, Swiatek played her last match on the 3rd
of November when she beat world no.7 Madison Keys 6-1 6-2 in the round robin in Riyadh (draw).During this season the Pole has achieved a 62-16 match record. Iga clinched 3 titles in 2025 in Wimbledon, Cincinnati and Seoul. The Pole was the finalist in Australia and Bad Homburg.
Elena Rybakina in 2025
At the moment ranked no.6, Elena played her last match on the 3rd of November when she beat world no.4 Amanda Anisimova 6-3 6-1 in the round robin in Riyadh (draw).
This year Elena has managed to achieve an overall 56-19 win-loss record. Rybakina has won 2 titles in 2025 in Strasbourg and Ningbo.
Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina fought against each other 11 times. Their actual head to head record is 6-5 for Swiatek.