'It was extremely difficult' - Elena Rybakina opens up after beating Ons Jabeur to storm in Abu Dhabi 2025 semi-final showdown

Tennis sensation Elena Rybakina defeated Ons Jabeur in the quarterfinal of the Abu Dhabi Open 2025 and made it to the top four. The world number six toppled Jabeur with a scoreline of 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 to enter the semi-finals.

Elena Rybakina and One Jabeur share a hug at the net after their match in Abu Dhabi.

Rematch of the 2022 Wimbledon final.

But also a match between good friends.

Jabeukina. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/F9sJDhNQk4

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 6, 2025

The 25-year-old star player had a great start to the game, winning the first set comfortably. However, Jabeur staged her comeback and tied the game in the second set. Meanwhile, Rybakina showcased her beast form in the third set to knock her opponent out of the marquee event.

Elena Rybakina opens up after beating Ons Jabeur in Abu Dhabi

The Russian-born star expressed her happiness after the stunning win. The 25-year-old revealed that it was extremely difficult for her as they both had a great rivalry earlier as well. The star player revealed that she faced some difficulty in the game but kept her poise to defeat her strong opponent. Rybakina further thanked the crowd who did support her.

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Rybakina after beating Ons Jabeur in Abu Dhabi

Elena: “It was extremely difficult. Ons played really well. We played so close every game. I’m really happy I managed to win. Some moments I was getting luckier. Some moments she got luckier. It was a big rollercoaster. Really happy… pic.twitter.com/5TRy0snEf9

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 6, 2025

“It was extremely difficult. Ons played really well. We played so close every game. I’m really happy I managed to win. Some moments I was getting luckier. Some moments she got luckier. It was a big rollercoaster. Really happy to get through another round. It’s not easy. First point ons played really well; second one, I rushed and made a mistake. I knew it’s a tough match and no matter what, I need to fight and play point by point. Thank you guys for supporting us today," Elena Rybakina said after beating Ons Jabeur in Abu Dhabi.

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