Australian Open Women’s Final Prediction: Aryna Sabalenka vs Elena Rybakina

The Australian Open women’s final delivers the matchup tennis fans have been waiting for, as the two most dominant players on hard courts meet once again on the sport’s biggest stage. Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina renew their rivalry in a rematch of the 2023 final, with both players arriving in Melbourne in imperious form and without dropping a set en route to the championship match. Offering their insights and predictions are Zain Mustafa, Ateet Shrivastava, Jordan Reynolds, and Nurein Ahmed. Who will lift the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup?

Australian Open Women’s Final Prediction

Aryna Sabalenka vs Elena Rybakina

Zain: It is time for the final, as arguably the two best players on tour right now meet once again at this very stage. They split their four meetings last season, underlining just how close this rivalry has become. Sabalenka will rely on her improved movement and relentless aggression, while Rybakina’s chances hinge on her serve and first-strike tennis. In a matchup this tight, I slightly favor the player who has been here more often and has now made seven consecutive hard-court Slam finals.

Prediction: Sabalenka in 3

Ateet: This is a rematch of the 2023 Australian Open final, where Sabalenka recovered from a set down to win a classic. Rybakina will be eager to avenge that loss and claim her second Grand Slam title. Both players have been flawless for most of the fortnight, but Rybakina cannot afford lapses in concentration against the world No. 1. With power evenly matched, Sabalenka’s ability to raise her level under pressure gives her the edge.

Prediction: Sabalenka in 3

Jordan: Rybakina has consistently shown she can challenge and beat Sabalenka, including at the 2025 WTA Finals. If the best server in women’s tennis finds her spots, she has a real chance. However, nerves have sometimes held her back at Grand Slam finals, and Sabalenka is ruthless when she senses vulnerability. That difference may prove decisive.

Prediction: Sabalenka in 3

Nurein: Both players arrive unbeaten this season and have carried momentum from warm-up titles into Melbourne. Sabalenka has been the player to beat across the tour and has not dropped a set throughout the tournament. Rybakina’s serve gives her a fighting chance, but Sabalenka’s power edge, championship pedigree, and dominant presence in big moments are difficult to overlook.

Prediction: Sabalenka in 2