Elena Rybakina Targets Second Wimbledon Title in Dominant Run

Cataleya

July 11, 2024 · 1 min read

Elena Rybakina Targets Second Wimbledon Title in Dominant Run
Other Sports | July 11, 2024
Elena Rybakina defeats Barbora Krejcikova in straight sets to advance to the semi-finals. (Image: Sky Sport)

Elena Rybakina, in an open women’s draw at Wimbledon, has emerged as the clear favorite, aiming to capture her second title after her 2022 triumph. Currently the highest-ranked player remaining, Elena Rybakina showcased her prowess in a swift quarter-final victory over Elina Svitolina, clocking in at just 61 minutes and firing 28 winners. Heading into her semi-final clash against Barbora Krejcikova, Rybakina expressed determination to achieve further success, highlighting her impressive record at Wimbledon with 19 wins out of 21 matches.

Despite limited grass-court preparation due to injury setbacks earlier in the season, Rybakina has maintained formidable form, losing only one set so far. Barbora Krejcikova, her semi-final opponent, holds a psychological edge with a 2-0 head-to-head record against Rybakina, albeit on different surfaces. The Czech player, once ranked in the top 10, aims to recapture her Grand Slam-winning form from the 2021 French Open after battling illness and injury setbacks.

In the other semi-final, Italian Jasmine Paolini faces Donna Vekic, both seeking their maiden Wimbledon final appearance. Paolini, a surprise contender after reaching the French Open final recently, continues her breakthrough at Wimbledon, stunning higher-ranked opponents along the way. Meanwhile, Vekic’s resurgence from injury struggles marks a career-best Grand Slam run.

In men’s doubles, Britons Neal Skupski and Henry Patten set up an intriguing semi-final clash, guaranteeing British representation in the final. Skupski, last year’s champion with a different partner, teams up with Michael Venus, while Patten partners with Harri Heliovaara of Finland. The tournament continues to deliver surprises and compelling storylines as players vie for coveted titles and recognition on Wimbledon’s prestigious stage.