Sabalenka Conquers Indian Wells, Wins Thrilling Final Over Rybakina

Belarusian star claims her 23rd career title after three-set battle in the desert.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:34pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) in a thrilling final at the Indian Wells tennis tournament, finally conquering her demons at the event and securing her 23rd career title.

Why it matters

Sabalenka had reached the Indian Wells final three times previously without a victory, so this win marks a significant career milestone for the four-time Grand Slam champion. The match was a high-quality battle between two of the top players on the women's tour.

The details

Rybakina dominated the opening set, breaking Sabalenka early and taking it 6-3. Sabalenka responded by leveling the match in the second set, breaking Rybakina and winning it 6-3. The deciding set was a rollercoaster, with Sabalenka going up a break at 3-1 only for Rybakina to fight back and level at 5-5. Sabalenka then took the set to a tiebreaker, where she prevailed 8-6 to clinch the title.

  • The final was played on Sunday, March 15, 2026.

The players

Aryna Sabalenka

A four-time Grand Slam champion from Belarus who was finally able to win the Indian Wells title after three previous final appearances at the event.

Elena Rybakina

A top-ranked women's tennis player from Kazakhstan who was the runner-up in the Indian Wells final after winning the opening set.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This win means so much to me. I've been close before, but to finally get the title here is an incredible feeling.”

— Aryna Sabalenka

What’s next

Sabalenka will look to build on this title win and continue her strong start to the 2026 season, while Rybakina will aim to bounce back and challenge for more titles in the coming months.

The takeaway

Sabalenka's thrilling victory at Indian Wells demonstrates her mental toughness and ability to overcome past disappointments, cementing her status as one of the top players on the women's tour.