Rybakina IW win sends her to world No. 2

Double Grand Slam champion Elena Rybakina will climb to a career-best second in the world after reaching the Indian Wells Masters semis with a 6-1, 7-6 (4) defeat of Jessica Pegula.

The reigning Australian Open winner will climb a spot to stand behind world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka heading into the WTA spring clay season.

The Kazakh ended the run of Pegula by denying the heiress an eighth consecutive semi-final. She will bid for the final against Elina Svitolina after the Ukrainian defeated second seed Iga Swiatek 6-2, 4-6, 6-2.

“I’m just generally trying to be more aggressive, trying to go for my shots,” Svitolina said. “There is no champion who is waiting for the mistakes.

“You have to really be in a good position to attack. I was feeling good. I was trying to really open up the court and try to take the advantage.

“Iga’s such an aggressive player, and she moves really well. So if you don’t take the opportunity, she’s gonna take it..”

Rybakina remains wary of a dangerous opponent. “I felt when she (Svitolina) came back (after giving birth) that she’s playing more aggressive and she’s trying to really step in on some shots, put pressure.. 

“She’s a dangerous opponent who reads the game well. I’ll try to focus on my serve, because it’s a weapon.

“I really need to use it well, and then of course try to fight and find a way so hopefully I can win this match,”