Elena Rybakina advanced to the WTA Finals 2025 championship match in Riyadh after a hard-fought 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory over Jessica Pegula. The semifinal clash, held at King Saud University Indoor Arena, showcased Rybakina’s trademark power and resilience. However, her post-match comments confirmed that a lingering shoulder issue could impact her readiness for the final. With the title match scheduled less than 24 hours later, Rybakina’s physical condition is now a key storyline heading into the season finale.
Match Recap and Injury Context
Rybakina battled through visible discomfort, with tape on her right shoulder and moments of reduced service velocity. Despite this, she delivered 10 aces and won 78% of her first-serve points.
In her post-match interview, Rybakina said: “Hopefully I can recover for tomorrow. It’s been a lot of matches and I’ve been serving big, so I had to adjust a little bit. I’m pushing myself now because there’s one match left, but we also don’t want to make it worse going into the off-season.”
The 26-year-old has been managing the issue with her medical team since the Tokyo swing, where she withdrew from the semifinals due to back and shoulder tightness.
Analyst and Fan Reactions
Tennis analyst Oli Dickson Jefford noted, “Rybakina’s serve is her biggest weapon. Any limitation there shifts the balance in the final.”
Fans flooded social media with support, praising her grit. One post read, “Even at 80%, she’s still a threat. True champion mentality.”
Implications for the Final
Rybakina’s injury status introduces uncertainty into the championship match. Her opponent—either Aryna Sabalenka or Amanda Anisimova—will likely target her second serve and test her movement early.
If Rybakina can maintain her first-serve efficiency and manage the pain, she remains a top contender. However, any visible decline in power or mobility could tilt the match in her opponent’s favor.
What’s Next for Rybakina
The WTA Finals title match is set for November 9 in Riyadh. Rybakina will undergo treatment and light practice ahead of the final.
Regardless of the outcome, her 2025 season includes a Wimbledon semifinal, a Tokyo WTA 500 run, and an undefeated group stage in Riyadh—solidifying her place among the WTA elite.
