Aryna Sabalenka won her first Indian Wells title, defeating strong rival Elena Rybakina in a thrilling final that lasted more than two and a half hours in the scorching California heat.
The world No. 1 fought back from a set down to win 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6) and held off a match point in the final set tie-break as she fought for a historic victory.
The win follows Sabalenka’s recent engagement, after which she flashed her engagement ring to the crowd and welcomed a new puppy onto the court to celebrate.
“It was an amazing week getting a puppy, getting engaged, and winning a title. I’ll definitely remember it forever,” she said.
Rybakina, ranked third in the world, entered Sunday’s match with a head-to-head advantage, with four wins in the final against Sabalenka and one win for her opponent.
However, Sabalenka is the first world No. 1 to reach consecutive Indian Wells finals since Indian Wells finals began in 1989, and she broke that record with a show of determination.
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Sabalenka appears on court with her dog after victory over Rybakina
Rybakina played some great tennis to win the first set 6-3, frustrating an opponent who had been dominant throughout the tournament.
Rybakina then broke in the first game of the second set, but the Belarusian turned the tables and won the set 6-3.
Towards the end, both fighters continued to fight and the rally began to get longer, with Sabalenka on the verge of winning 5-3.
But Rybakina dug deep to win three games on the bounce, with Sabalenka holding serve to send the tournament finale to a tiebreak.
Arina Sabalenka celebrates victory at Indian Wells
Sabalenka defended her championship point with a stunning backhand winner, and Rybakina’s long return sealed the victory.
After the loss, Rybakina said: “Congratulations to Alina and her team. I hope to be able to play again soon. It wasn’t the result I wanted, but it’s been a good few weeks.”
“One of the best matches I’ve seen in years.”
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Martina Navratilova revealed she once held a pilot’s license while filming a high-flying flight during the live broadcast of the Indian Wells final day, and Tim Henman witnessed the funny side of the moment.
After the classic match, Sky Sports’ tennis pundit Tim Henman said: “We talked about how hot it was, but they’re resilient both mentally and physically… They never backed down and the quality of their tennis never diminished, even in the most important moments.”
“We didn’t let up. It was one of the best games I’ve seen in years.”
He added: “When she was pushed, even when things didn’t go her way in the third set, Sabalenka was very focused, very resilient and kept hitting her shots.
“She was brave and the backhand she smashed on that match point was just amazing. Sabalenka deserved to win.”
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