Elena Rybakina

“It definitely helps. It’s been a lot going on in the previous year outside of the court. I think now all my focus was on tennis. I can’t always perform at my best, there are always ups and downs, but I think we’ve been doing a very good job, right decision in certain situations, because every day is a challenge.”

Elena Rybakina · said 2026-09-10 · reported 2026-09-13

Rybakina reflected on being able to focus on tennis after a turbulent previous year off the court.

“I think that now I have a very good team around me, good people,”

Elena Rybakina · said 2026-09-10 · reported 2026-09-13

Rybakina credited having a good team around her as a key reason behind her success during the US Open.

“No. No, no, no. We’ll see next time.”

Elena Rybakina · said date not stated · reported 2026-09-12

Rybakina smilingly replied to Sabalenka's playful threat after the Indian Wells 2023 final.

“It’s just a number right now – my goal is to win this tournament and I’m in the semi-finals. [Being world No 1] is an amazing achievement for me but I’m focusing on my next game, relaxing and trying to recover tomorrow.”

Elena Rybakina · said 2026-09-09 · reported 2026-09-09

Rybakina reflected on becoming world No 1 while prioritising her focus on winning the US Open tournament.

“It’s tough to put into words, it was a really tough match, maybe not our best level but happy to make it through.”

Elena Rybakina · said 2026-09-09 · reported 2026-09-09

Rybakina commented on her match against Zheng Qinwen after becoming the new world No 1.

“I didn’t start well, I’ve played all my matches at night so I had to adjust, and I was thinking very negative. I’m super happy.”

Elena Rybakina · said 2026-09-09 · reported 2026-09-09

Rybakina explained her difficult start against Zheng, citing the daytime conditions after playing all her previous matches at night.