Australian Open 2026: Aryna Sabalenka contemplates another major final loss as Elena Rybakina wins in Melbourne

Sabalenka was the favorite to beat unseeded American Madison Keys and win her third consecutive title in Melbourne, but her second serve was unstable and she lost in three sets.

At the French Open, she played what she called “the worst final” of her life, making 70 unforced errors in windy conditions.

Her performance against Rybakina – who was seeking her second major title after winning Wimbledon in 2022 – was far from a disaster.

In fact, there were signs that she maintained her composure until she broke down fifth seed Rybakina in the decider.

Mistakes suddenly poured in from both wings, causing Sabalenka to lose her serve again, taking a 4-3 lead, and her concentration deteriorated further.

One time she dropped her racket and kicked it across the court out of frustration.

Meanwhile, Rybakina remained composed and advanced with the help of two aces to claim her second major title.

When asked why she felt she was losing momentum in the deciding set, Sabalenka said: “It was a great tennis match from her. Maybe she wasn’t very smart for me.

“Today I’m a loser, maybe tomorrow I’m a winner, and maybe again a loser. Let’s see.”