Rybakina books place in WTA Finals for third straight year

AFP

Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina secured the last qualifying spot for the season-ending WTA Finals in Riyadh after advancing to the Pan Pacific Open semi-finals in Tokyo on Friday.

Rybakina, who has won two WTA 500 titles this season, beat Canada's Victoria Mboko 6-3 7-6(4) in the Tokyo quarters.

The 26-year-old will be making her third consecutive appearance at the Riyadh showpiece, which runs from November 1-8. Russians Mirra Andreeva, 18, and Ekaterina Alexandrova, 30, were named as the first and second alternates.

Former Wimbledon champion Rybakina joins world number one Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, defending champion Coco Gauff, Amanda Anisimova, Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys and Jasmine Paolini in the draw.

"This season we have seen eight different champions across WTA 1000 tournaments and the Grand Slams, showing the incredible depth and drama of the WTA Tour, with the perfect curtain-call now ready to take place at the WTA Finals," WTA Finals Tournament Director Garbine Muguruz said in a statement.

Rybakina, who will rise one spot to world number six when the latest rankings are released on Monday, faces Czech Linda Noskova in the Toyko semi-finals on Saturday.

More from Sports

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

  • Afternoons with Helen Farmer

    1:00pm - 4:00pm

    Every weekday afternoon, Helen Farmer will help you to navigate the highs and lows of life in the UAE. Stay up to date with what’s happening and where to go.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!