On talent, Elena Rybakina really does hang with Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka more than Coco Gauff” – Tennis journalist

Elena Rybakina: A Talent that Rivals Świątek and Sabalenka More Than Gauff

In the highly competitive world of women’s tennis, where the likes of Iga Świątek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff dominate headlines, one player stands out quietly but powerfully: Elena Rybakina. Often described as an underappreciated force, tennis analysts and journalists are beginning to recognize her exceptional talent, asserting that she hangs more with Świątek and Sabalenka, the world’s top two, than with the youthful energy of Coco Gauff.

A Measured Rise

Rybakina’s rise to the top echelons of the sport has been deliberate. She first broke through on the global stage by winning Wimbledon in 2022, establishing herself as a player who can succeed under pressure. However, despite this prestigious win, she has sometimes been overshadowed by the higher-ranked Świątek and the hard-hitting Sabalenka, as well as by the charismatic Gauff, who garnered widespread attention after her US Open triumph in 2023.

However, those in the know, including tennis journalists and insiders, are quick to point out that Rybakina’s talent places her in a different conversation — one that is often reserved for Świątek and Sabalenka, rather than Gauff.

Power and Precision: A Match for the Best

One key reason why Rybakina is seen in the same light as Świątek and Sabalenka is her combination of power and precision. At her best, Rybakina’s groundstrokes can be as devastating as Sabalenka’s, and her ability to control rallies matches the precision of Świątek’s all-around game. Her imposing serve — one of the most consistent and powerful on the WTA Tour — gives her an edge in critical moments. In fact, her serving stats often outshine those of Świątek and Sabalenka, making her a formidable opponent on fast surfaces, particularly grass and hard courts.

What distinguishes Rybakina from her peers is her calm demeanor on court. While Świątek exhibits an emotional and intense style, and Sabalenka thrives on sheer aggression, Rybakina often plays with an ice-cool composure. This allows her to handle high-pressure situations without appearing flustered, giving her a unique psychological advantage over her competitors.

Rivaling Świątek and Sabalenka

The head-to-head matchups between Rybakina and Świątek have become a focal point in women’s tennis, with Rybakina proving that she is more than capable of challenging Świątek’s dominance. Notably, Rybakina has defeated Świątek multiple times, including a key victory in the 2023 Indian Wells semifinals. Her ability to consistently challenge the world number one reflects her status as one of the elite players who can go toe-to-toe with Świątek in terms of both skill and mental toughness.

Sabalenka, on the other hand, offers a more direct comparison to Rybakina. Both players rely on powerful serves and groundstrokes, often turning their matches into battles of firepower. However, Rybakina’s tactical discipline and ability to maintain control over the pace of play set her apart, often allowing her to prevail in high-stakes encounters.

The Coco Gauff Comparison

While Gauff’s recent success has propelled her into the spotlight, particularly after her US Open win, her game is still evolving. Gauff has shown tremendous athleticism and defensive skills, making her one of the most exciting young players on tour. However, analysts point out that Gauff’s game, while improving, still lacks the consistency in power and shot-making that defines players like Rybakina, Świątek, and Sabalenka.

Gauff’s strengths lie more in her ability to counterpunch and outlast opponents with her defensive prowess. In contrast, Rybakina plays a more proactive and aggressive style that mirrors Świątek and Sabalenka’s approach. This places her in a different category when discussing the most dangerous players in the game.

A Player to Watch

As the WTA landscape continues to evolve, Elena Rybakina is increasingly seen as a player whose raw talent and composed demeanor make her a perennial contender for major titles. While the spotlight may often fall on Świątek, Sabalenka, or Gauff, Rybakina’s ability to consistently deliver against the best in the world shows that she is a force to be reckoned with.

With her powerful serve, pinpoint accuracy, and tactical intelligence, Rybakina proves that she belongs in the conversation alongside Świątek and Sabalenka, more than Gauff. As she continues to refine her game, it’s clear that Rybakina is poised to remain at the top, pushing the boundaries of women’s tennis and challenging the dominance of her high-profile rivals.