The Australian Open 2026 delivered a blockbuster shock in Melbourne as Elena Rybakina crushed Iga Swiatek 7-5, 6-1 in the quarterfinals, propelling herself into the semifinals with a display of raw power and precision.
On the iconic Rod Laver Arena, the match unfolded over 93 tense minutes. Both players traded breaks in the opening set, but Rybakina’s composure shone through, saving a break point and sealing it 7-5. Swiatek, aiming for her next career Grand Slam, faltered badly in the second set.
Rybakina turned aggressor, rattling off eight of the final nine games. Her serve was a weapon, conceding minimal points, while Swiatek managed only 49% first serves in. The result levels their rivalry at 6-6.
Rybakina’s hot streak continues – 18 wins in 19 since October, and now eight consecutive top-10 scalps. The 2022 Wimbledon champ is peaking at the right time.
She awaits the Anisimova-Pegula winner in the semis, with a shot at her third major final. For Swiatek, this defeat underscores vulnerabilities beyond clay, prompting a deep form reassessment ahead of future Slams.