Riyadh] 05-11-2025: The 2025 WTA Finals in King Saud University Indoor Arena, Riyadh has reached its climactic round-robin stage, delivering high-stakes tennis and defining the final semi-finalist from the competitive Serena Williams Group. Day five saw the group’s unbeaten star, Elena Rybakina, secure a comfortable win, setting the stage for a blockbuster, winner-take-all clash between Iga Swiatek and Amanda Anisimova.
Rybakina Solidifies Top Spot with Win Over Alexandrova:
In the day’s first match, 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina extended her remarkable winning streak, defeating second alternate Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-4, 6-4. Having already secured her semi-final berth following her stunning comeback victory over Iga Swiatek earlier in the week, Rybakina played with the freedom of a player in form and without pressure.
Rybakina arrived for the clash after impressive back to back wins over both Amanda Anisimova and Swiatek, but Alexandrova, a late replacement for the ill Madison Keys, put up a respectable fight. The first set saw the Kazakh star under some pressure, needing to save three breakpoints before clinching a late break to take the opener 6-4.
In the second set, the former Wimbledon champion’s powerful first serve and heavy groundstrokes took control. Rybakina broke early for a 3-1 lead and maintained the advantage, showing glimpses of her peak form despite some late resistance from Alexandrova. A late surge from Alexandrova saw her briefly break back to level the score at 4-4, but Rybakina immediately responded, securing another decisive break and successfully serving out the match to wrap up her perfect 3-0 record in the group.
This victory not only confirms Rybakina as the top seed from the Serena Williams Group heading into the knockout stage but also underscores her incredible momentum entering the final leg of the season.
Swiatek vs Anisimova: A Showdown for the Semis
All eyes now turn to the highly anticipated final group match: a direct shootout between two of the game’s rising stars, Iga Swiatek and Amanda Anisimova, for the second semi-final spot.
The match is a high-stakes rubber-match between the two this season. Swiatek dominated their first encounter, routing Anisimova 6-0, 6-0 in the Wimbledon final to claim her first All England Club title. However, the American swiftly sought revenge, overcoming Swiatek in the US Open quarter-finals in September. Their current head to head adds an extra layer of drama to this pivotal meeting, with their rivalry quickly becoming one of the most compelling on the tour.
Iga Swiatek, the world No. 2, has had a mixed tournament, thrashing Madison Keys but then succumbing to the powerful resurgence of Rybakina. The Polish star must find the consistent, aggressive form that propelled her to the top of the rankings if she hopes to overcome an in-form Anisimova.
Amanda Anisimova, meanwhile, has showcased the fighting spirit and raw power that has marked her impressive late-season resurgence. After a tough loss to Rybakina in her opener, she bounced back with a gritty three-set victory over Keys, proving her mettle under pressure. Her confidence will be high, particularly after her recent victory over Swiatek in New York. The winner of this final round-robin match will join Elena Rybakina in the semi-finals, while the loser faces elimination.
The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Serena Williams Group, promising a spectacle of elite women’s tennis as Iga Swiatek and Amanda Anisimova lay it all on the line for a place in the coveted WTA Finals semi-finals.
amanda Anisimova, iga swiatek, elena rybakina
