Sabalenka beats Rybakina to secure first Indian Wells title in dramatic final

16 Mar 2026 • 5:15 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Aryna Sabalenka has defeated Elena Rybakina 3-6 6-3 7-6 (8-6) to win her first Indian Wells title, avenging her loss to Rybakina in the Australian Open final six weeks prior.
  • Sabalenka saved a championship point in the deciding set tie-break with a scorching backhand winner before securing the victory in a two-and-a-half-hour match.
  • The World No 1 had previously lost two Indian Wells finals, including to Rybakina in 2023.
  • The victory capped a memorable fortnight for Sabalenka, who also announced her engagement to Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis and welcomed a new puppy, Ash.
  • Sabalenka acknowledged her opponent's strong play but was ultimately pleased with her ability to secure the win in the final points.

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