Kazakh Rybakina 23, zooms into Australian Open final

Melbourne: The red-hot form of Elena Rybakina continued as the Kazakh launched into her first Australian Open final on Rod Laver Arena.
With the ‘Original 9’ watching on, the Wimbledon champion put on a fitting display to overpower two-time Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka 7-6(4) 6-3 on Thursday night.

With three consecutive aces to cap an opening hold, Rybakina set the tone before clattering a 135 km/h backhand cross court.
However, the experienced Azarenka made the first move. The world No.24 edged a cat-and-mouse net duel to break for a 3-2 advantage.
Another booming Rybakina backhand restored parity and the 23-year-old then soared to 5-3 up.
But Azarenka knows how to dig in and the former world No.1 raised the bar, connecting with a forehand pass on the run to ignite a spirited response.
For 10 successive points Rybakina’s hitherto reliable first serve couldn’t find the mark, but somehow she erased a 0-40 deficit to regain the momentum.
A tiebreak was needed and Rybakina emerged as the front runner. She strengthened her grip on a final ticket, breaking to love for 2-0 in the second set.
Her pinpoint striking, her raw power proved relentless. It was too much for a sixth opponent in a row.
It was accomplished for the incredibly composed Rybakina.
“For sure I’m super happy, I’m super proud,” she said. “I’m very happy to play her one more time.
“Today it was a little tough for me, different conditions, I couldn’t be super aggressive. In the end I managed to win and I’ll try my best in the final, of course.
“For sure I got a lot of experience from Wimbledon, to be honest I just want to come on court and enjoy the moment, the atmosphere. I’ll try my best, fight and hopefully I’m going to win.”
The 23-year-old will meet fifth seed Aryna Sabalenka, who brushed aside surprise package Magda Linette in straight sets later on Thursday night, in Saturday’s final. Rybakina is yet to beat Sabalenka in three career meetings. (UNI)