Elina Svitolina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 on Friday at the WTA Finals in Indian Wells. This win secured her semifinal spot after 1 hour and 52 minutes.
The result eliminated Sabalenka from the tournament. She will finish the 2026 season ranked World No. 3.
Mirra Andreeva, the French Open champion, finished group play with a 3-0 record. She has overtaken Sabalenka in the rankings.
The Belarusian’s year concludes with her fewest wins since 2022 and no Grand Slam titles, following two final defeats to Elena Rybakina. Jessica Pegula may push Sabalenka further down the standings depending on her performance in the final stages.
“I don't know how much fun that was,” Andreeva said.
Sabalenka could not overcome Svitolina in what served as a knockout match for the final semifinal berth in Group 2. Sabalenka had reached the knockout stages in each of the past four years.
Svitolina has reached the WTA Finals semifinals for the first time since 2019. She rebounded after her divorce from Gaël Monfils.
Svitolina Rallies in Indian Wells
Sabalenka opened with an early break to lead 2-0. Svitolina stood up to the powerful serve to take the first set.
Sabalenka fired an angled forehand winner to clinch an early break in the second set. She leveled the match.
Sabalenka broke Svitolina in the opening game of the third set. Svitolina then won the final six games.
The final game featured an extraordinary sequence of shotmaking. Sabalenka saved four match points, including two with shots on the edge of the line. She committed a double fault and then over-rotated on a forehand that sailed wide.
“Very happy with the performance. It was not an easy match. It was a little bit of a roller coaster,” Svitolina told Sky Sports.
Svitolina had struggled with her movement against Andreeva. She remained solid to close out the victory.
“I want to be more composed with my game,” Svitolina said.
How Far Will Jessica Pegula Progress to Change the Final Rankings?
How far will Jessica Pegula progress to change the final rankings?
Earlier coverage: Elina Svitolina Defeats Karolina Muchova to Stay in WTA Finals Hunt
