Elena Rybakina is set to kick off her first tournament since the US Open this evening at the prestigious WTA Finals in Riyadh, where she will face off against Jasmine Paolini. This marks a significant moment for Rybakina, who has navigated a tumultuous year filled with both physical and mental challenges that have tested her resilience on and off the court.
During a media day session held yesterday, Rybakina opened up about the toll that this year has taken on her. The 24-year-old Kazakhstani player has battled a series of illnesses and injuries, which have unfortunately become a recurring theme throughout her season. Despite showing flashes of brilliant form at various points, her progress has often been interrupted by withdrawals from tournaments, leaving her and her fans frustrated.
The issues Rybakina faced were not solely limited to physical ailments. She also touched upon some challenges in her coaching situation, although she was quick to downplay any rumors surrounding it. This combination of factors created a complex backdrop for her season, leading to a “catalogue of mystery” that included sleep issues, allergies, and a troublesome back injury.
Reflecting on her struggles, Rybakina shared, “Yeah, this year I had a lot of ups and downs, starting with sleep problems, like insomnia, whatever it was. Then allergies, then back issues. When you have such a rhythm, it’s not easy to stop. But after I got used to some rest, I would say it was really nice.”
Rest has played a crucial role in her recovery process, allowing her to regain a semblance of normalcy after a year of erratic performances. Despite the time away from competition, Rybakina expressed optimism about the work she accomplished during her training sessions in the lead-up to the WTA Finals. “Again, it’s not easy to start after this break. But I’m happy with the work we did in the last two weeks. Of course, I’m not maybe at my 100%,” she said, acknowledging the difficulties of returning to form.
In a refreshing show of self-awareness, Rybakina emphasized that she is not placing excessive pressure on herself as she approaches this tournament. Instead of fixating on achieving peak performance, she has adopted a more relaxed mindset. “The level is definitely not at my best. I actually came without much expectation. I want to have fun. I want to see where I am, where my level is now playing against the best players,” she explained.
This laid-back approach underscores her understanding that the WTA Finals, while a prestigious event, is just one step in her journey as she gears up for the new season. “Yeah, no expectations. Just fight, have fun. The most important for me is to stay healthy and be ready for pre-season, starting fresh for next year,” Rybakina added, highlighting her priorities as she looks to regain her competitive edge.
As she steps onto the court in Riyadh, Rybakina will not only be facing Paolini but also a mix of emotions—anxiety, excitement, and determination. The tournament will serve as an important barometer for her current state of play against some of the world’s best players. She will be keen to gauge where she stands after a year of ups and downs, particularly against a backdrop of intense competition.
The WTA Finals is renowned for its high level of play, featuring the top eight players of the season. For Rybakina, this is not just an opportunity to compete but a chance to rediscover her love for the game. The event will also provide invaluable experience as she aims to build momentum heading into the off-season and the 2024 season.
In a year when she has faced significant adversity, Rybakina’s commitment to enjoying the game and prioritizing her health bodes well for her future. Her resilience and adaptability are qualities that can set her apart as she continues to grow as a player. As she prepares to face Jasmine Paolini, the focus will be on enjoying the moment, fighting for every point, and learning from the experience—elements that are crucial for any athlete aiming to navigate the complexities of professional sport.
Ultimately, the WTA Finals presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Rybakina. It is a platform for her to showcase her talent while providing a valuable learning experience as she transitions into the next chapter of her career. With the spirit of determination and a newfound focus on health and well-being, Elena Rybakina is ready to embrace whatever the tournament brings, setting the stage for a promising return to form in the world of tennis.