ED MCGROGAN: Aryna Sabalenka made her serve, once prone to collapse under pressure, into a bonafide weapon, and it’s taken her to the top of women’s tennis. If Rybakina can make her serve, already her primary weapon, into something even incrementally stronger, she could take a similar leap. It won’t be easy, given how potent her signature shot is already, but if anyone could refine it, it’s Ivanisevic, a star server in his day.
Furthermore, the Croat’s recent run coaching Novak Djokovic could pay dividends for Rybakina. The 25-year-old with natural power and a taste for aggression feels like she should have more than just one Grand Slam title and two 1000-level titles to her name. If healthy, she generally goes deep at tournaments, but Rybakina has been outplayed at some crucial stretches. Don’t expect her calm personality to ever change, but how she plays pressure-packed moments—a Djokovic specialty—could lead to immense success.
After a 2024 season that saw Rybakina off the court for extended time, she finds herself a bit off the radar. But she’s still ranked No. 6, still possesses an imposing game, and will have had an offseason to gel with her new coach. Expectations may not be sky-high right now, but Rybakina doesn’t need to close the gap between too many players to make a significant impact on the sport.
