Elena Rybakina went a perfect 3-3 in the group stage at the WTA Finals after delivering another good display and ousting alternate Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-4 6-4.
Early in the match, Rybakina faced a bit of trouble but managed to save a total of three break points across two separate games. Alexandrova paid the price for not realizing her chances as the 2022 Wimbledon champion claimed the first break in the ninth game for a 5-4 lead before closing out the set on her serve.
That completely shifted the momentum the Kazakhs way as she broke Alexandrova two more times in the second set to open a comfortable 5-2 lead, The Kazakh suffered a bit of collapse and failed to serve out for the match in her first attempt, but was successful in her second attempt.
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Rybakina finished at the top spot of her group. Previously, she defeated Amanda Anisimova and Iga Swiatek.
Rybakina was slated to face Madison Keys today
In her last group stage match, Rybakina was due to meet reigning Australian Open champion Keys, but the American had to pull out due to illness.
Really disappointed to not be feeling my best and ultimately having to withdraw from the tournament. Huge accomplishment to make it this far and very proud of myself for doing that and having a great year. I hope to be back next year, Keys said earlier today when announcing her withdrawal from the Rybakina match.
Mirra Andreeva was the first alternate in Riyadh and she was expected to replace Keys. But then, it was revealed that Andreeva was also dealing illness, which led to Alexandrova being named as an alternate.
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Rybakina is playing Ekaterina Alexandrova. Madison Keys unfortunately too ill so isnt able to take to the court. Alexandrova is the second alternate because the first alternate, Mirra Andreeva, who is also in the doubles, is pretty under the weather, Gigi Salmon said on Sky Sports.
By taking on Rybakina, Alexandrova made her WTA Finals debut at the age of 30.
