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Sabalenka Beats Rybakina, Advances to Miami Open Final
World No. 1 cruises to straight-sets victory, sets up championship showdown against Coco Gauff.
Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:37am
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In a highly anticipated semifinal matchup between the top two women's tennis players in the world, Aryna Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina 6-4, 6-3 to advance to the Miami Open final. Sabalenka, the defending champion, dominated the proceedings with her powerful baseline game, breaking Rybakina's serve early in both sets to cruise to victory in just over an hour. The win sets up a final clash between Sabalenka and American sensation Coco Gauff, with Sabalenka one victory away from completing the prestigious "Sunshine Double" by winning both Indian Wells and Miami in the same year.
Why it matters
This semifinal matchup between the world's top two players was a rare occurrence, as the top two seeds typically don't face off before the final of a major tournament. Sabalenka's victory sets up an intriguing final against the rising American star Coco Gauff, with Sabalenka looking to cement her status as the dominant force in women's tennis by capturing the Sunshine Double.
The details
Sabalenka came out firing on all cylinders, trading early breaks with Rybakina before seizing control late in the first set. Rybakina struggled with her serve, allowing Sabalenka to pounce and take the opening set 6-4. The second set was all Sabalenka, as she broke early and never looked back, closing out the match 6-3 to book her spot in the final.
- The semifinal match took place on Thursday night at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
- Sabalenka and Rybakina previously met in the Australian Open final in January, with Rybakina emerging victorious.
The players
Aryna Sabalenka
The world No. 1 and defending Miami Open champion, known for her powerful baseline game and ability to channel her intense emotions into on-court performance.
Elena Rybakina
The world No. 2 and reigning Wimbledon champion, who has established herself as one of the top players on the WTA Tour.
Coco Gauff
The American prodigy who will face Sabalenka in the Miami Open final, seeking to win her first career Grand Slam title.
What’s next
Sabalenka will face Coco Gauff in the Miami Open final on Saturday, March 30, 2026, with the opportunity to capture the prestigious Sunshine Double.
The takeaway
Sabalenka's dominant performance against the world No. 2 Rybakina solidifies her status as the top player in women's tennis and sets up an intriguing final against the rising American star Coco Gauff, who will have the home crowd support in Miami.
