Elena Rybakina beats world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the Australian Open 2026 quarterfinals, advancing to the semifinals with a dominant display.
Melbourne — Elena Rybakina defeated Iga Swiatek in a high-profile quarterfinal at the Australian Open 2026, advancing to the semifinals with a composed and powerful performance.
Rybakina controlled the match with a dominant serve and clean baseline hitting, finishing with more winners and fewer unforced errors than the world No. 1. Despite a lower first-serve percentage, the Kazakhstani stayed calm in key moments and consistently forced Swiatek into difficult positions.
The opening set turned at set point when Swiatek missed a routine shot, allowing Rybakina to seize control. From there, Rybakina’s crosscourt forehand and low backhand down the line proved especially effective, neutralizing Swiatek’s aggressive returning strategy.
The win continues Rybakina’s strong comeback following injuries and personal challenges last season and ends Swiatek’s hopes of completing a full set of Grand Slam titles in Melbourne this year.
Rybakina now moves into the Australian Open semifinals as one of the tournament’s most in-form players.