Watch: Elena Rybakina practices with Simona Halep, confirms report from this week

by

Elena Rybakina’s return to the WTA Finals is officially set, putting to rest concerns about her absence from the year-end tournament in Riyadh. The 2022 Wimbledon champion, who hasn’t competed since an abrupt second-round retirement at the US Open, recently revealed a promising update: a joint practice session with Simona Halep in Dubai. This news not only excites fans but also gives a glimpse into her preparation for the tournament after a challenging season.

Rybakina’s absence since early September left many speculating about her health and readiness for the WTA Finals. After her split with long-time coach Stefano Vukov, reports emerged suggesting that she needed time off to mentally and physically recuperate from the pressures she had been under. Her abrupt departure from her US Open match intensified these concerns, leading to speculation that she might skip Riyadh. However, Rybakina’s recent training update from Dubai signals her return, showing she’s focused on competing in the WTA Finals after the extended break.

Dubai has long been a preferred training destination for tennis players, particularly during the fall. Its favorable climate and high-quality training facilities attract top players worldwide. The Kazakh star’s choice of Dubai aligns with this trend, and her decision to train alongside Simona Halep further underscores her commitment to getting back into form. Halep, a seasoned competitor and former world No. 1, makes an ideal practice partner, providing Rybakina with an opportunity to gauge her game against a high-caliber opponent. Sharing a glimpse of her training on Instagram, Rybakina posted a photo with the caption, “Back at it. Great practice with @simonahalep,” signaling her readiness to make a strong comeback in Riyadh.

This recent practice session aligns with previous statements by Yuri Schukin, the captain of Kazakhstan’s Billie Jean King Cup team, who had revealed that Rybakina was indeed preparing to compete at the WTA Finals. In an interview earlier this week, Schukin discussed her ongoing training and mentioned her dual commitments: after the WTA Finals, she is expected to represent Kazakhstan in their mid-November match against South Korea. Schukin elaborated on the Kazakh team’s roster, which includes Rybakina, Zarina Diyas, Yulia Putintseva, Anna Danilina, and Zhibek Kulambayeva, and emphasized Rybakina’s intent to compete with confidence both in Riyadh and later in the team event.

“Elena plans to play at the WTA Finals tournament at the end of this season, where she qualified due to her successful results earlier in the year,” Schukin stated. “Now Elena feels well, and if she manages to show a confident game in Riyadh, she is determined to play in the matches against the South Korean team.” His comments underscored her drive to participate in both events, marking a significant comeback from the months of uncertainty that followed her US Open exit.

Rybakina’s situation heading into the WTA Finals is, however, far from ideal. While the Kazakh may be one of the freshest players on the court when the tournament begins on November 3rd, she faces the potential disadvantage of having been away from competitive matches for two months. Match play is crucial in tennis, and while rest can benefit a player’s physical condition, it often takes a toll on competitive sharpness. A prolonged absence from tournaments, especially near the end of the season, can lead to challenges in adapting to the intensity and pace of match settings. Unlike her rivals who have been regularly competing, Rybakina may need to quickly find her rhythm to stay competitive.

Still, Rybakina’s absence from the circuit may also serve as a hidden advantage. Physically refreshed and with a potentially renewed mindset after a season filled with ups and downs, she might bring a unique edge to Riyadh. If she can tap into the form that propelled her to a career-high ranking and Grand Slam success, her comeback could shake up the tournament. As a player who has proven her ability to deliver on the big stage, Rybakina’s well-rounded baseline game, combined with her powerful serve, can make her a formidable opponent even if she starts off a bit rusty.

Looking back, 2024 has been a pivotal year for Rybakina. Following her Wimbledon victory in 2022, she emerged as one of the top players in the WTA, reaching a peak ranking of World No. 3. Her qualification for the WTA Finals this year reflects her consistent success, despite the challenges that forced her to step back temporarily. The tournament’s format—a round-robin competition featuring the top eight players—will also allow Rybakina a chance to gain match momentum without the immediate pressure of single-elimination. This setup could work in her favor, allowing her to gradually find her form and build confidence as she advances.

Rybakina’s upcoming commitments, including her plans to represent Kazakhstan in the Billie Jean King Cup, reflect a strong desire to end the season on a high note, despite the hurdles she has faced. Her return to Dubai and her training sessions with Halep suggest that she is working diligently to restore her game, mentally and physically. Her determination and resilience in overcoming setbacks this season make her a player to watch closely, both at the WTA Finals and in her national representation.

As the WTA Finals approach, the tennis world is eager to see how Rybakina will perform. Her return to competition after a hiatus, paired with her potential as one of the sport’s rising stars, sets the stage for an intriguing tournament. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Rybakina’s refreshed form can carry her to success in Riyadh and further cement her place among the world’s elite.

Leave a Comment