Asia's top-ranked player stages a masterful comeback, advances to Miami Open 2026 semifinals

Despite encountering considerable difficulties against an elite representative of the American host, the Asian tennis beauty still knew how to navigate through the tough situation.

World No. 2 Elena Rybakina continues to display impressive form by securing a spot in the semifinals Miami Open 2026 following a remarkable comeback victory over Jessica Pegula with scores of 2-6; 6-3; 6-4 early morning on March 26 Vietnam time.

The quarterfinal match at Hard Rock Stadium lasted over two hours, witnessing a courageous comeback by the reigning Australian Open champion. Despite an unfavorable start, losing the first set quickly after Pegula led 4-0, Rybakina demonstrated her class by adjusting her gameplay effectively in the subsequent sets.

The turning point of the match came in the second set, when Pegula had three break-point opportunities but failed to capitalize. Seizing the moment, Rybakina won seven of the next eight games to level the score, before establishing an early advantage in the decisive set.

In the third set, Pegula continued to apply pressure with consistent and accurate shots. The American player even saved three break-points in the fifth game, but Rybakina maintained the necessary composure at critical moments. With her powerful serve and flexible shot placement, the Kazakh star gradually regained control of the match.

In the decisive game, Rybakina showed her resilience by holding firm against her opponent's final counterattacks. A powerful serve combined with a strong forehand brought her the match-point, before Asia's top player closed out the match with a direct ace.

This victory extends the reigning world No. 2's impressive performance streak from the end of last season, following her triumphs at the WTA Finals, Australian Open, and deep runs in major tournaments. This also marks her third semifinal appearance at a WTA event in 2026.

Rybakina's semifinal opponent will be a very familiar name - Aryna Sabalenka, after the world No. 1 overcame another American representative - Hailey Baptiste. Rybakina and Sabalenka have created many dramatic encounters recently, and their upcoming showdown promises to be no exception.