Coco Gauff Discusses Elena Rybakina's Success in 2026

Elena Rybakina has emerged as the most consistent player on the WTA Tour this year, recently achieving the top ranking during the US Open, surpassing Aryna Sabalenka. Following her title at the US Open, Rybakina secured her second Grand Slam of the year, adding to her victory at the Australian Open earlier in the season. She is now a formidable competitor leading up to the WTA Finals.

Rybakina's next challenge will be at the China Open, which is the final Masters tournament on the WTA Tour calendar, where she will compete alongside Sabalenka and Gauff.

During a press conference at the China Open, Gauff was asked about Rybakina’s success this season. Gauff noted Rybakina's status as a top player, pointing out that injuries and inconsistency had previously hindered her performance. Gauff stated, “I think now everything seems like it’s come together,” adding, “It’s not a surprise at all that she’s won two slams this year.”

Gauff emphasized the unpredictability of women’s tennis, contrasting it with the consistency often seen in men's tennis. She mentioned that many fans might find the outcomes surprising, but among players, there are no unexpected results: “I think it goes for a lot of the top 10. There are no surprises.”

She expressed her belief that Rybakina's current form will lead to further successes, saying, “I think she’s going to win many more. Hopefully, I can not lose to her in some more semis, because it’s been two back-to-back ones (smiling).”

Rybakina is set to face the winner of Yuliia Starodubtseva and Alina Charaeva in the second round, while Gauff will compete against either Camila Osorio or Lanlana Tararudee.

Both players could potentially meet again in the semifinals of the China Open, having been placed in the same half of the draw. Rybakina currently leads their head-to-head record, with two victories in their last three encounters, including her wins at the US Open and the Canadian Open this year. Gauff's only win against Rybakina came four years ago at the Canadian Open in Toronto.