She can, however, now focus on that season given that her WTA Finals has come to an end despite her win over Sabalenka.

Rybakina lost to Qinwen Zheng after an opening defeat to Jasmine Paolini, with only pride at stake against the world number one.

But world number five Rybakina produced a superb display to beat Sabalenka 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, having been the clear underdog.

Tim Henman pleased for Elena Rybakina despite WTA Finals exit

The Belarusian was on a seven-match winning run, and boasted a six-three head-to-head record over her opponent.

But Rybakina emerged victorious, much to the delight of former British number one Tim Henman, who told Sky Sports Tennis: “Rybakina just dominated the latter part of the third set.

READ MORE: Goran Ivanisevic says what he’s heard from other players about Elena Rybakina prior to coaching her

“She will head into the off-season with good vibes. I’m really pleased for her. With all the trials and tribulations she has had, this is great from her.”

Did Aryna Sabalenka ease up against Elena Rybakina?

Along with Sabalenka’s form, Rybakina was also up against it given she had played just three times since Wimbledon.

The 25-year-old was playing her first tournament since withdrawing from the US Open because of a back injury.

But she will have taken great confidence from her Brisbane International victory over Sabalenka at the beginning of 2024.

READ MORE: Andy Roddick reacts after Elena Rybakina picks Goran Ivanisevic as her new coach for 2025

There could, of course, be an argument that the Belarusian simply took her foot off the gas against Rybakina, having already qualified for the semi-finals before they met.

But the world number one would have wanted all the momentum possible ahead of what is certain to be a tricky semi-final test.

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