EXCLUSIVE: ELENA RYBAKINA’S OPENS UP ABOUT A SECRET THAT SHE’S…
EXCLUSIVE: Elena Rybakina Opens Up About a Secret She’s Been Keeping Quiet
Elena Rybakina, the reserved yet formidable tennis star, has long been known for letting her racket do the talking. However, in a candid interview, she revealed a personal secret she’s been keeping under wraps—a story that sheds light on the human side of one of tennis’s most enigmatic champions.
Behind the Calm Exterior
Rybakina, often described as calm and composed on the court, revealed that she has been battling self-doubt throughout her career. Despite her monumental success, including multiple Grand Slam titles and a spot in the upper echelon of the WTA rankings, Rybakina admitted that the pressure to meet expectations has been overwhelming at times.
“People see us as strong athletes, but they don’t always realize the emotional toll,” Rybakina said. “There have been moments where I questioned if I belonged at this level, even after winning Wimbledon.”
A Journey of Resilience
One of her secrets involves her pre-match rituals, which she keeps deeply personal. Rybakina shared that she has been quietly working with a sports psychologist since her early days on the tour. “It’s not something I ever talked about publicly because I wanted to keep that part of my life private. But it’s been crucial in helping me handle the ups and downs of this sport,” she explained.
Rybakina also revealed that during a particularly challenging season early in her career, she considered stepping away from tennis altogether. “I wasn’t sure if I could handle the grind. But with the support of my family and team, I found my love for the game again,” she said.
A New Perspective
This openness marks a shift for Rybakina, who has often been viewed as one of the more reserved players on the tour. Her decision to share her story stems from a desire to inspire younger players and fans who may face their own struggles.
“If I can show even one person that it’s okay to feel vulnerable and ask for help, then it’s worth it,” Rybakina said.
Life Beyond Tennis
Another revelation was her passion for painting, a hobby she picked up during the pandemic. “It’s my way of disconnecting from the competitive world. When I paint, it’s just me and the canvas. No expectations, no pressure,” she shared with a smile.
She has also been quietly supporting various charitable initiatives, including funding tennis programs for underprivileged children in Kazakhstan. Rybakina’s contributions have largely been under the radar, aligning with her preference to keep the focus on her game.
Looking Ahead
With this new chapter of transparency, Rybakina hopes to continue growing both as a player and a person. “I’m still learning every day. Sharing this part of myself is a step toward embracing who I am, imperfections and all,” she concluded.
Elena Rybakina’s courage to reveal her struggles and personal growth is a reminder that even the most composed champions face battles we may never see. As she prepares for another season, she carries not only her signature calm but also a newfound confidence in her vulnerability.