Elena Rybakina strengthened her WTA Finals 2025 hopes with a straight-sets win over Leylah Fernandez at the Tokyo Open. The Kazakh star claimed a solid 6-4, 6-3 victory in the second round to move within one win of sealing the final qualification spot for Riyadh.
Her next challenge comes on Friday against Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko. A win would confirm Rybakina as the eighth qualifier for the season-ending championship. If Mboko scores the upset, Mirra Andreeva will take the last place in the elite field. Seven players—Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, Amanda Anisimova, Madison Keys, Jessica Pegula, and Jasmine Paolini—have already secured their spots.
Rybakina Overcomes Previous Defeats
This was a significant test for Rybakina. Fernandez had beaten her in their two most recent meetings, both decided in three sets. In 2023, Fernandez prevailed 3-6, 7-6 (3), 6-4 in Canada after saving match points. Earlier this season in Washington, she won 6-7 (2), 7-6 (3), 7-6 (3).
Their Tokyo clash opened with both holding serve until 3-4. Rybakina struck first with a break, only to lose it in the next game. She quickly regrouped, winning four consecutive games to lead by a set and 3-0. Fernandez pushed late, but Rybakina remained composed and closed out the match with a crisp crosscourt backhand.
The world No. 4 produced 18 winners and 18 unforced errors while saving four of five break points.
“Today was a very difficult match,” she said. “It’s always not easy against Leylah, and especially it was the first match for me here, so I’m pretty happy with the win. I’m looking forward to my next match.”
A Familiar Rivalry Ahead
Rybakina and Mboko have already shared two tight encounters this season. Rybakina triumphed in Washington, 6-3, 7-5, but Mboko edged their Montreal meeting in a thrilling comeback, 1-6, 7-5, 7-6 (4).
Friday’s quarterfinal in Tokyo will decide who joins the top eight in Riyadh. With both players owning a win over the other this year, the clash promises intensity.
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