Italian Open: Rybakina Advances Past Eala

Elena Rybakina is through to the last 16 of the Italian Open after a 6-4, 6-3 defeat of Alexandra Eala in straight sets on Sunday. The 2023 champion at Foro Italico celebrated her fourth round-of-16 entry in five visits to the event, showcasing her affinity for Roman clay.

Rybakina’s triumph reinforces her elite standing this season. Leading the WTA Tour with 29 main-draw wins in 2026, she’s uniquely reached the last 16 across all six WTA 1000s – a testament to her versatility and stamina.

Her path forward pits her against the winner of Karolina Pliskova vs. Laura Siegemund, both of whom trail in head-to-head matchups.

Facing Eala for the first time, Rybakina’s match was a masterclass in baseline dominance. World No. 2’s thunderous forehands and precise serves forced Eala into defensive scrambles, covering vast court distances under breezy skies.

From the first set’s early stages, Rybakina’s down-the-line forehand rockets established supremacy, denying Eala rally footing. Transitioning seamlessly into the second set, she grabbed an immediate break, then exploited weak second serves by stepping in and ripping winners.

Eala, the gritty Filipina, refused to yield easily, navigating wind effectively and sparking hope with mid-second-set fireworks. Yet Rybakina’s poise prevailed. The decider hinged on Eala’s late net mishit that cost a break point, enabling Rybakina to consolidate and finish with a laser forehand.

Rybakina’s surge positions her as a formidable force in the draw’s business end.