Elena Rybakina came to the U.S. Open off of a bad foot injury, but it turned into one of the greatest Grand Slam title runs of all-time.
She missed the entire first week of practice, but believed she could recover, focus, and play her way into this tournament…
Think about how hard that is.
On top of that, she had to beat:
4-time Grand Slam Champion Naomi Osaka.
Olympic Gold Medalist Qinwen Zheng.
2-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff.
4-time Grand Slam Champion and the reigning world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
She won her last 3 matches of the tournament in 3 sets.
On top of that, she leaves as the World No. 1.
She does not let the world know her feelings on the court. She doesn’t scream when she’s pumped up. She doesn’t lose control when she misses a sitter. She keeps an icy fortress of composure and focus around her, no matter the moment.
Because of that, not everyone knew the strength, guts, and fire she possesses inside.
But instead of telling us, she’s showing us who she is.
An icy mindset, a heart made of fire, and above all… one of the truest champions the game has seen.
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