Sabalenka beats Rybakina at Australian Open to win first Grand Slam

The hard-hitting Belarusian collapsed to the court in tears after winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 against Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in a high-quality 2hr 28min arm-wrestle on Rod Laver Arena.

The 24-year-old Sabalenka wiped away tears before getting a warm hug from Moscow-born Rybakina, who played a full part in a thrilling match between two of the most powerful hitters in the women's game. 

Sabalenka, the fifth seed and form player in 2023, then ran to her player's box to celebrate with her team.

"Thank you, my team, the craziest team on the tour. We've been through a lot of, I would say, downs last year," Sabalenka said, addressing her team after receiving the trophy.

Turning to beaten 22nd seed Rybakina, she added: "You're such a great player and of course we are going to have many more battles, hopefully in finals of the Grand Slams."

Asked by reporters if it was the greatest match she had ever played, Sabalenka said: "I would say it was. She played unbelievable tennis. 

"I fought so hard to win this one. I think the tennis was great... I really enjoyed this battle."

Sabalenka will now rise to second in the world rankings behind Poland's Iga Swiatek, equalling her career high, having triumphed in her first Grand Slam final.

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