Ningbo Open: Rybakina Edges Paolini 6-3, 6-2 in Semifinal
Elena Rybakina keeps her WTA Finals hopes alive with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Jasmine Paolini in the Ningbo Open semifinal.
“I knew the match would be very tough...”
Elena Rybakina secured a spot in the Ningbo Open final after a convincing 6-3, 6-2 win over Jasmine Paolini, keeping her hopes of qualifying for the WTA Finals alive. This victory showcases Rybakina's determination to succeed, particularly given her challenging recent performances in semifinal matches.
Rybakina's next challenge will be Ekaterina Alexandrova in the final, who booked her spot after defeating Diana Shnaider 6-3, 6-4 in the second semifinal match. The Ningbo Open final promises to be an exciting encounter, with Rybakina vying for her second title of the season.
The WTA has confirmed Jasmine Paolini's semi-final appearance has secured her a spot in the WTA Finals. She'll be joining an elite group of players including Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, Amanda Anisimova, Jessica Pegula, and Madison Keys.
Elena Rybakina and Mirra Andreeva are set to compete for the final spot in the season-ending championship. The WTA Finals will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 1st to 8th, featuring a total prize money of $15.5 million.
NINGBO FINAL 🔜
— wta (@WTA) October 18, 2025
Elena Rybakina fires past Paolini in an emphatic victory 👏#NingboOpen pic.twitter.com/sAuCpfLA4d
The match's momentum shifted in Rybakina's favor when she broke Paolini's serve to lead 3-2 in the second set, going on to claim the next three games and seal the victory in 1 hour and 29 minutes. Rybakina's impressive performance included 10 aces and 30 winners.
“I knew the match would be very tough,” Rybakina said after reaching her second final of the year.
“Jasmine played really well this season. She's a really tough opponent. I knew I'd need to bring my best. I'm happy I stayed focused until the end and I won it in straight sets.
Big backhand 💥
— wta (@WTA) October 18, 2025
Elena Rybakina | #NingboOpen pic.twitter.com/GP3vPI4L6A
“I'm very excited. I'll try to bring my best (in the final). Let's see what's going to happen.”
With Paolini's defeat, the battle for the last two spots in the WTA Finals will now be decided at the Pan-Pacific Open in Tokyo, where Mirra Andreeva is also in contention. Rybakina's win improves her head-to-head record against Paolini to 3-3, highlighting the competitive nature of their matches.
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