Aryna Sabalenka sets up blockbuster Rybakina clash in Miami Open Semi-Finals

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka powered into the semi-finals of the Miami Open with a composed 6–4, 6–4 victory over Hailey Baptiste. The win, secured in just one hour and 20 minutes, sets up a highly anticipated clash with Elena Rybakina, a matchup that has quickly become one of the defining rivalries on the WTA Tour.

Despite the straight-sets scoreline, Sabalenka was tested early by Baptiste, who created immediate break opportunities.

The Belarusian had to save:

• Two break points in her opening service game
• Another break point shortly after

By weathering that early pressure, Sabalenka gradually took control. Baptiste’s missed chances proved costly, as Sabalenka capitalised on her own break opportunity to edge the first set 6–4.

Read also: Aryna Sabalenka beats Elena Rybakina to win first Indian Wells title

Control and Composure in the Second Set

The second set followed a similar pattern, with both players holding firm through the middle stages. Sabalenka’s consistency from the baseline and improved serving under pressure allowed her to maintain control, eventually securing the decisive break to close out the match in straight sets.

Her ability to manage key moments without dropping a set continues to define her run in Miami.

Rybakina Rematch: A Rivalry Renewed

Sabalenka now turns her attention to a familiar opponent in Elena Rybakina, who advanced after a comeback win over Jessica Pegula. The upcoming semi-final will mark the 17th meeting between the two, underlining the growing intensity of their rivalry.

Their recent encounters have been evenly contested:

• Sabalenka defeated Rybakina to win the Indian Wells Open earlier this month
• Rybakina claimed victories in the Australian Open and WTA Finals showpiece matches

Speaking ahead of the clash, Sabalenka acknowledged the challenge: “It’s always a battle, always a fight, always a challenge. We push each other to the limit and bring out the best tennis.”

Sabalenka’s progression to the semi-finals continues a remarkable run of form in 2026. She has now reached the last four in each of her first four tournaments of the season:

• Brisbane International
• Australian Open
• Indian Wells Open
• Miami Open

This consistency places her in elite company. She is the first player to achieve this feat since Simona Halep in 2018.

Dominance on the Sunshine Swing

Sabalenka’s performances across Indian Wells and Miami, collectively known as the “Sunshine Swing” have been particularly impressive. She has now reached four consecutive semi-finals across these events, a milestone not achieved since Serena Williams during her dominant run between 2014 and 2016.

Even more striking is her efficiency in Miami, where she has not dropped a set in the tournament and has won 10 consecutive Miami Open matches in straight sets. This places her alongside legends such as Chris Evert, Steffi Graf, and Martina Hingis in achieving such a streak.

• Read also: What is the Sunshine Double in Tennis?

Semi-Final Stakes in Miami

With both players in strong form, the upcoming semi-final promises to be one of the standout matches of the tournament. Sabalenka’s power and consistency will be tested against Rybakina’s aggressive serving and resilience under pressure, a contrast in styles that has consistently produced high-quality contests.

A place in the Miami Open final is on the line, but beyond that, the match offers another chapter in a rivalry that continues to shape the women’s game.

SportsLigue