Rybakina Set to Clash with Kostyuk in Canadian Open Quarterfinal

Elena Rybakina, the tennis player from Kazakhstan, admitted to experiencing some physical discomfort but affirmed her readiness for extended matches, viewing them as beneficial preparation for the US Open, according to recent reports.

Rybakina secured her spot in the Canadian Open quarterfinals by defeating Dayana Yastremska in a demanding match that lasted two hours and 33 minutes, with scores of 5-7, 6-2, and 7-5.

This marked Rybakina’s sixth appearance on hard courts this season, having previously reached the semifinals in Washington before competing in Montreal.

The former world number three mentioned she is managing certain physical challenges but remains generally content, believing these lengthy matches will ultimately aid her preparation for the US Open.

“I’m definitely feeling the strain of my physical issues, but we are handling it. Overall, I’m pleased to be capable of playing these drawn-out matches. I view it as valuable preparation for the US Open,” the 26-year-old stated when questioned about her physical condition.

Rybakina’s next opponent is Marta Kostyuk, ranked No. 28 globally, in what will be their fourth career encounter.

Kostyuk emerged victorious in their initial match at the Adelaide International two and a half years prior. However, Rybakina has since dominated, winning their subsequent two meetings at the 2023 US Open and the 2024 Stuttgart Open.

Looking ahead to her match against Kostyuk, Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, anticipates a formidable contest. She stated, “We’ve played several times on various surfaces, and it’s consistently a challenging battle. The matches tend to be intense. I’ll concentrate on my own game. I recognize her as a fierce competitor with great physical endurance. I will strive to perform my best and hopefully secure the win.”