Jessica Pegula of the United States and Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan are set to square off in a compelling women’s singles semifinal at the Australian Open in Melbourne, Australia, on Jan. 29, 2026. Both players have navigated demanding paths through the draw, showcasing contrasting styles that promise an intriguing contest under the lights at Melbourne Park.
Pegula arrives in the semifinals after a series of composed performances that have highlighted her consistency from the baseline and ability to absorb pressure. The American has looked increasingly comfortable on hard courts, using her depth and court coverage to wear down opponents and maintain control during extended rallies throughout the tournament.
Rybakina, meanwhile, has powered her way into the last four with her trademark aggressive game. The Kazakhstani player’s serve has been one of the standout weapons of the tournament, allowing her to dictate play early in points and shorten exchanges when needed, particularly against top-tier opposition.
The matchup sets up as a classic contrast between Pegula’s counterpunching resilience and Rybakina’s first-strike tennis. Their previous meetings have often hinged on small momentum swings, and conditions in Melbourne could play a key role in determining whether defense or raw power prevails.
With a spot in the Australian Open final at stake, both players will be aiming to handle the occasion as much as the opponent across the net. For Pegula, it represents another chance to break through at a Grand Slam, while Rybakina looks to add another major final to her résumé and assert her status among the elite of the women’s game.
