Elena Rybakina has faced a challenging period in her career, stepping away from professional competition since her last-minute retirement in the second round of the US Open in early September. The 24-year-old Kazakh star had a promising start to her season, yet health issues and a highly publicized split with her former coach, Stefano Vukov, derailed her journey just as it seemed she was poised to reach new heights. Now, as she hints at a comeback for the WTA Finals, set to start in just over a week, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how she will fare in Riyadh. Recent updates on her training in Dubai alongside former world No. 1 Simona Halep have sparked hope that Rybakina will indeed make her long-awaited return to the court, though questions remain about her readiness to compete at such an elite level.
Despite her impressive performances in early 2023, Rybakina’s season has been one of ups and downs, beginning with strong showings and tournament wins but taking a turn with her early exit at the US Open, a match against Clara Ponchet that she ultimately withdrew from before stepping onto the court. Rybakina’s departure from the US Open was met with disappointment, as fans and analysts were eager to see how she would build on her previous performances. However, her decision to prioritize her health and recovery has underscored the importance of longevity in her career, especially given the physical toll of the intense tennis calendar. Since then, her absence has been felt on the WTA Tour, with fans eagerly awaiting her return to the competition.
As preparations for the WTA Finals ramp up, recent news about Rybakina’s team changes has given fans renewed optimism. Following her split with Vukov, with whom she had worked for several years, Rybakina has brought in a new team of coaches and trainers, signaling a fresh start. The decision to part ways with Vukov, who had guided her through her rise in the rankings, suggests Rybakina is ready to adopt new strategies and techniques as she moves forward. For a player as talented as Rybakina, changes in coaching can often be a turning point, helping to refine her skills and adjust her approach to high-stakes matches. The announcement of her new team has provided a sense of stability and anticipation, and many fans hope that the renewed structure will help her regain her competitive edge.
Adding to the excitement is Rybakina’s recent training with Simona Halep in Dubai, where the Kazakh player has been working hard to regain her form. The two athletes, both known for their powerful games and on-court tenacity, have shared a practice session that appears to be both productive and intense. A video shared on social media showed Rybakina looking fit and focused as she drilled on the court alongside Halep, whose experience and skill are respected worldwide. The video quickly garnered attention from fans, with comments flooding in expressing enthusiasm for Rybakina’s return and support for her journey back to full strength.
While Rybakina’s fitness level seems promising, there is an undeniable concern regarding her lack of match practice ahead of the WTA Finals. Having been absent from competitive play for nearly two months, she will arrive in Riyadh without the match sharpness that comes with regular competition. However, Rybakina’s resilience and skill have carried her through similar challenges in the past, and her performance in early tournaments this year has given her a solid foundation to build upon. Her training sessions in Dubai, coupled with her new coaching team, suggest that she is determined to give her best at the WTA Finals, despite the limited preparation time. Fans will be eager to see how her recent training and adjustments in her game plan translate to her performance in Riyadh.
This year, Rybakina has demonstrated the kind of consistency and grit that has allowed her to qualify for the prestigious year-end WTA Finals, an accomplishment that underscores the strength of her season overall. Securing her spot in Riyadh is a testament to her impressive performances throughout the year, even as she has dealt with health issues and changes within her support team. The Finals will not only serve as a platform to gauge her current form but also offer her a chance to compete against some of the best players in the world, including Iga Świątek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff. The stakes are high, but Rybakina’s competitive nature and desire to prove herself suggest she is prepared to face the challenge head-on.
Beyond the Finals, Rybakina’s journey back to top form remains one of the most compelling narratives on the WTA Tour. Her decision to return now, rather than taking additional time to prepare for the 2024 season, reflects her commitment to compete at the highest level and maintain her position among the elite. Whether she reaches the Finals with her confidence fully restored or is still finding her rhythm, her participation will be a testament to her resilience and dedication.
As Rybakina steps onto the court in Riyadh, she will carry with her the hopes of fans who have followed her journey this year, and her performance will be closely watched by those eager to see her rise once again. Despite the uncertainties, Rybakina’s determination and the support of her new team could see her make a significant impact at the WTA Finals, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.