Elena Rybakina’s Winning Streak Snapped in Brisbane Quarterfinals
Brisbane, 13 January 2026 – Elena Rybakina’s impressive 13-match winning streak came to an end in the quarterfinals of the Brisbane International, where she fell to Karolina Muchova in a hard-fought match. The world number five had been in dominant form since the end of 2025, but Muchova’s resilience proved too much on the day.
Brisbane International Performance
Rybakina entered the tournament as the defending champion and started strongly, defeating Shuai Zhang in the second round and Paula Badosa in the third round. Her victory over Badosa extended her unbeaten record in Brisbane to seven matches. However, in the quarterfinals against Muchova, the Czech player turned the tables, winning 6-2, 2-6, 6-4. Muchova dominated the first set but faced a comeback in the second before clinching the third.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Current WTA Ranking | 5 |
| Career High Ranking | 3 |
| 2025 WTA Finals Result | Winner |
| Brisbane Record (2026) | Quarterfinals |
| Head-to-Head vs Muchova | 1-1 |
2025 Season Highlights
Rybakina’s late-season surge in 2025 was remarkable. After a challenging start, she qualified for the WTA Finals as the last entrant and went on to win the championship, defeating Aryna Sabalenka in the final. She also reached the semifinals in Riyadh, overcoming Jessica Pegula. Her aggressive baseline play and powerful serve were key to her success, earning her over 7.4 million euros in prize money for the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Elena Rybakina’s longest winning streak?
Her 13-match streak in 2026 tied her career-best from 2023, spanning multiple tournaments and including victories over top players.
How did Rybakina perform at the 2025 WTA Finals?
She won the title unbeaten, defeating players like Iga Swiatek, Ekaterina Alexandrova, and Sabalenka in the process.
What are her goals for 2026?
Rybakina aims to win a Grand Slam title and maintain consistency, focusing on health and preparation for majors like the Australian Open.