Rybakina ends Swiatek’s reign in Stuttgart

In a stunning upset at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, Elena Rybakina halted Iga Swiatek bid for a historic third consecutive title. Rybakina, ranked world No.4, showcased her power on the clay court, clinching a 6-3 4-6 6-3 victory in a hard-fought semifinal that lasted nearly three hours.

The Kazakhstani player’s formidable performance included 10 aces. Moreover, the 2022 Wimbledon champion saved 11 out of the 13 break points she faced, although her opponent was almost as efficient in this department, having saved 16 of 20. This victory marked Rybakina’s fourth win in six encounters with Swiatek, denying the Polish star the opportunity to join Maria Sharapova as the only three-time champion…