Rybakina Attributes ITF Finals Win to Low Expectations and Strategic Focus

The sixth-ranked tennis player in the world, Kazakhstan’s **Elena Rybakina**, shared insights on what contributed to her victory at the WTA Finals 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

**»You arrived here with jet lag, feeling exhausted, and, as you admitted, with lowered expectations. How did these reduced expectations assist you in winning the tournament?»**

— Indeed, I might not have put too much pressure on myself. Transitioning from one tournament to another is quite challenging. Adapting to new conditions and balls and learning to handle them takes time. I stepped onto the court for my first match after only two days of practice, which was tough.

I had an edge with my serve, and we focused on that because we knew I wouldn’t be as confident in longer rallies, considering we had just arrived. I believe I played aggressively throughout the tournament. The top players do give you opportunities, but not many. I made sure to capitalize on everything as quickly as possible, — Rybakina stated, according to the WTA website.