Russian-born Kazakhstani tennis player Elena Rybakina has finally shed light on her Australian Open exit. Rybakina was defeated in the Grand Slam tournament’s second round by Anna Blinkova. After a rather disappointing start to the season, she is, nevertheless, hopeful about the upcoming Abu Dhabi Open. Amidst all this, the tennis player has finally spilled the beans on this tumultuous period in her career.

Notably, Rybakina also participated in this tournament’s debut championship last year, attending the Abu Dhabi WTA Tennis Open in 2021. While the Russian tennis star’s Grand Slam dream ended on a sad note, Rybakina is looking forward to having a blast at the upcoming event in the UAE.

With no glory at the Australian Open, Elena Rybakina opens up about her headspace and what is to come next

In a recent interview, this Russian-born Kazakhstani tennis star revealed her feelings after the debut Grand Slam event of the season. She said- “I started [the season] well, which I didn’t expect because I had quite a short preparation and I was sick right before the tournament,” Rybakina’s confession highlighted that in her Australian Open participation, she lacked the required physical fitness and strength.

Rybakina further added to her comments and said- “Then in Melbourne, it was a tough first round and I had some issues after that match, which was a bit unlucky but that’s tennis. The season has only just started and there is still the whole year, so we will see how it goes.” 

Read more: ‘Not Their Business’- When Elena Rybakina’s Australian Open Loss to Aryna Sabalenka Triggered Controversy Over Her Coach’s Behavior

With what is to come ahead, Rybakina stated her happiness at being a part of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open. She said- “I really like the UAE and playing here, I spend a lot of time in pre-season here, I’ve already done four years in a row. Even now after Melbourne, I stayed in Dubai and I come to Abu Dhabi often. I really enjoy it – I really like the people here, the food, the weather, so I’m enjoying my time here.”

Despite a rather unfortunate beginning at the AO, Rybakina’s visit to the Middle East might bring fruitful motivation for the rest of this season. Given that she is confident, she might surprise fans with a victory soon.

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