Elena Rybakina has confirmed her first post-Australian Open event because the world No. 6 will return to Abu Dhabi between February 03-08 to defend her title.
Final yr, the Kazakh gained her maiden title on the United Arab Emirates event after beating Daria Kasatkina within the closing.
Now, she is ready to play on the WTA 500 event in Abu Dhabi for the fourth time in her profession.
Earlier than profitable all of it, Rybakina picked up quarterfinal exits on the event in 2021 and 2023.
In addition to the 2022 Wimbledon champion, the event additionally introduced two extra very notable names – 2022 champion Belinda Bencic and world No. 9 Daria Kasatkina.
The Abu Dhabi organizers thrilled to have Rybakina again
“We’re thrilled to welcome back Elena, Daria Kasatkina, and Belinda Bencic to the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open among many other top players,” tournament director Nigel Gupta said in a statement.
“Elena’s incredible performance last year set a new benchmark, and we’re looking forward to seeing her defend her title against another strong field of world-class players in Abu Dhabi. This tournament continues to grow in stature, and 2025 promises to be one of the most competitive editions yet.”
Elena Rybakina© Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open/Instagram – Honest Use
In the meantime, the previous world No. 3 kicked off her 2025 season by reaching the United Cup semifinal with Kazakhstan.
On the occasion, the 25-year-old gained her opening three singles matches earlier than shedding to Iga Swiatek.
Now, the world No. 6 is getting ready to begin her Australian Open run by taking over rising Australian star Emerson Jones within the first spherical.
In 2023, Rybakina reached the ultimate at Melbourne Park – was even up by a set – however then misplaced in three units to Aryna Sabalenka.
Final yr, the Kazakh suffered a shock second-round loss in Melbourne to Anna Blinkova.
There is no such thing as a doubt that the 2023 Australian Open runner-up will probably be decided to make amends and do significantly better this yr at Melbourne Park.
