Elena Rybakina says she has done her due diligence on addressing frequent illnesses and injuries as the world No. 5 follows a strict diet made by her nutritionist, while a physical therapist regularly monitors her blood to properly react in case anything is lacking.
While Rybakina has been one of the best players in the game since winning 2022 Wimbledon in a sensational way, she has often struggled with various illnesses, allergies, and also injuries. Naturally, that couldn't go without leaving a negative impact on the court as there had been several occasions when the 26-year-old would lose in a big tournament - or even withdraw - and later confirm that she was battling an illness or an injury.
One of such moments came during the 2023 French Open, when Rybakina easily won her opening two matches before pulling out of her third-round match because she contracted a virus. Also, she pulled out of the 2024 Paris Olympics due to illness.
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Throughout this year, the 2022 Wimbledon champion has also battled illness and physical setbacks at times. However, she is doing her best to limit such setbacks as much as possible.
Rybakina: My blood and vitamins get regularly checked... The nutritionist then creates a suitable diet
"All of this is very important. Sleep especially. I always try to pay close attention to my nutrition when I'm training and during tournaments, because it also affects recovery. Especially on long flights. Also, unfortunately, I have a lot of allergies. Naturally, I discussed my diet with a nutritionist. A physical therapist monitors all these aspects, including vitamins, to ensure my body can handle the stress. The doctor takes blood samples and runs tests, and based on these, we create a suitable nutrition plan for me to adhere to throughout the season," the world No. 5 told Informburo.
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Rybakina enjoyed a strong end to the 2025 season and posted great results in consecutive tournaments. The Kazakh won Ningbo and reached the Tokyo semifinal, before cruising past the WTA Finals and winning the prestigious season-ending tournament for the first time in her career.
