Elena Rybakina says she always believed as she wins Australian Open

Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 to win the Australian Open, claiming her second Grand Slam title, and said she 'always believed' she could return to top form.

Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka in a three-set final to win the Australian Open. It is her second major title, following her 2022 Wimbledon victory. She arrived in Melbourne after winning the WTA Finals in November and said she 'always believed' she could return to the level she had shown previously. Rybakina credited work with her team for the result. Key details: - Final score: Rybakina beat Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4. - Seedings and status: Rybakina was the fifth seed; Sabalenka is reported as world No 1 and a two-time champion. - Coaching note: Rybakina's coach, Stefano Vukov, was suspended last year during the Australian Open over alleged verbally abusive behaviour; his suspension was lifted on appeal in August and he received a trophy on court this year. - Rybakina called the victory a team effort and said she hopes to carry the moment through the season. - Sabalenka said she was upset about missed opportunities but also noted she had played well; the report records her as 4-4 in major finals. Summary: Rybakina's victory adds a second major to her record and is presented as a return to strong form after recent ups and downs. Undetermined at this time.