‘Aryna Sabalenka is a Lot Better Than Elena Rybakina’ – Tennis Experts Disagree in 2025 WTA Predictions
As the 2025 WTA season kicks off, heated debates are brewing among tennis experts and fans alike regarding the rivalry between Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina. These two powerhouses have been at the forefront of women’s tennis, dominating with their explosive games and unwavering determination. While some analysts firmly believe that Sabalenka is the superior player, others argue that Rybakina has what it takes to outshine her Belarusian rival and stake her claim as the best in the world.
Sabalenka and Rybakina have established themselves as two of the most formidable players on the tour. Both are Grand Slam champions, known for their aggressive playing styles, thunderous serves, and mental resilience. However, their contrasting personalities and approaches to the game have fueled endless comparisons and discussions about who truly reigns supreme.
Supporters of Aryna Sabalenka point to her consistency, physical dominance, and ability to adapt her game to different surfaces. Sabalenka finished the 2024 season as the world number one, a testament to her relentless drive and remarkable performances throughout the year. She clinched multiple titles, including her second Australian Open crown, and reached the latter stages of nearly every tournament she entered.
Former WTA player and current analyst Pam Shriver believes Sabalenka’s all-around game gives her the edge over Rybakina. “Aryna’s power is unmatched, but it’s her versatility that sets her apart,” Shriver said. “She can play aggressively when needed, but she also knows how to grind out points and adjust her tactics mid-match. That kind of adaptability is what makes her so hard to beat.”
Sabalenka’s fitness and mental toughness have also drawn praise. Her ability to handle high-pressure situations, such as tiebreaks or deciding sets, has been a crucial factor in her success. Critics, however, argue that her aggressive style sometimes leads to unforced errors, particularly in tightly contested matches.
On the other side of the debate, Elena Rybakina’s supporters emphasize her composure, precision, and ability to peak at the right moments. The reigning Wimbledon champion has a calm, almost unflappable demeanor that has earned her a reputation as one of the tour’s most mentally steady players. Rybakina’s laser-sharp groundstrokes and efficient movement make her a nightmare opponent for anyone on the other side of the net.
Martina Navratilova, a tennis legend and one of Rybakina’s admirers, recently highlighted the Kazakh player’s unique strengths. “Elena doesn’t have the same raw power as Sabalenka, but her accuracy and timing are second to none,” Navratilova said. “She knows exactly when to go for her shots and rarely beats herself. That kind of consistency is invaluable in today’s game.”
The pair’s head-to-head record adds another layer of intrigue to the debate. While Sabalenka holds a slight edge in their encounters, many of their matches have been tightly contested, often decided by a few crucial points. Their battles, characterized by long rallies and breathtaking shot-making, have become must-watch events on the WTA calendar.
The rivalry also reflects the broader evolution of women’s tennis. Both players have brought a level of power and athleticism that has raised the bar for the rest of the field. Their presence at the top of the rankings signals a shift toward a more aggressive style of play, where big serves and baseline dominance are paramount.
However, some experts caution against framing the 2025 WTA season solely as a two-player race. Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Ons Jabeur remain strong contenders, capable of challenging both Sabalenka and Rybakina. Swiatek, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has proven her ability to dominate on clay and hard courts, while Gauff’s breakthrough US Open win in 2024 solidified her status as a rising star.
Tennis commentator Chris Evert expressed this sentiment, saying, “As great as Aryna and Elena are, the WTA is deeper than ever. Players like Swiatek, Gauff, and even emerging talents like Linda Noskova can shake things up. It’s going to be a fascinating season.”
Sabalenka and Rybakina themselves have been careful to downplay comparisons, often emphasizing mutual respect over rivalry. In interviews, both have spoken about the importance of focusing on their own games rather than worrying about external expectations. Sabalenka recently remarked, “Elena pushes me to be better. Every time we play, I know I have to bring my best. That kind of challenge is what makes tennis so exciting.”
Rybakina echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Aryna is an incredible competitor. I don’t think about who’s better—I just try to improve with every match. At the end of the day, it’s about winning titles and enjoying the journey.”
Fans, however, are not as diplomatic. Social media platforms are abuzz with debates, with hashtags like #TeamSabalenka and #TeamRybakina trending during their matches. The passion of their supporters reflects the growing excitement around women’s tennis and the impact these two players have had on the sport.
As the 2025 season unfolds, the performances of Sabalenka and Rybakina will be closely scrutinized. Will Sabalenka’s explosive power and versatility continue to dominate, or will Rybakina’s precision and consistency prove superior? While it’s impossible to predict the future, one thing is certain: their rivalry is shaping up to be one of the defining narratives of the year.
The comparisons to other legendary rivalries in women’s tennis, such as Serena Williams versus Maria Sharapova or Chris Evert versus Martina Navratilova, are inevitable. Yet, both Sabalenka and Rybakina are carving out their own unique legacies, inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike.
Whether or not Aryna Sabalenka is “a lot better” than Elena Rybakina remains a matter of opinion. What’s undeniable is that both players are elevating the sport and providing fans with thrilling tennis that will be remembered for years to come.