Elena Rybakina vs Aryna Sabalenka Prediction & Betting Tips - WTA Mutua Madrid Open

Prediction published on 02/05/2024, 01:55  by Daniel Ngulu | Modified on 02/05/2024 at 07:30 in Tennis Predictions

Fourth seed Elena Rybakina and second seed Aryna Sabalenka will rekindle their rivalry when they face off next in Madrid. The two will battle in the semi-finals with the winner playing Iga Swiatek or Madison Keys in the final. Elena Rybakina defeated Sabalenka earlier this year to win the title in Brisbane. It was her third win in eight matches in this fixture. Rybakina has been in excellent form this year and has compiled a 30-4 record. She is unbeaten on clay and has won her last eight matches. The world number four is now one win away from advancing to her third successive final and sixth final of the year. Rybakina defeated compatriot Yulia Putintseva in three sets in the quarter-finals. It was the first time that she was dropping a set in this year’s edition in Madrid.

Aryna Sabalenka is well on course to defending the title she won here last year. If she does go on to win, she will tie the record for most championships in this event. The Belarussian has won two titles already in Madrid. Sabalenka defeated Mirra Andreeva in straight sets in the last round. It was her first 2-0 victory in the tournament. The 25-year-old has compiled a strong 19-5 record and has won five of six matches on clay. Sabalenka has however not been as dominant as Rybakina when advancing to championship matches. She has played just two finals in the six tournaments she has so far participated in. This will be the ninth time that she and Rybakina will square off. They have never battled on a clay surface before. Three of their matchups have been championship matches with two being won by Rybakina.