Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | Semi-Final

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Jessica Pegula faces Elena Rybakina for a place in the final of the Australian Open.

Start date/time:

Venue: Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – ESPN

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ / USA – ESPN+ & Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina ticket information

Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina prediction

Jessica Pegula broke new ground at the Australian Open as she defeated Amanda Anisimova in straight sets to reach the semi-finals for the first time in Melbourne. She dominated the first set but went behind in the second as Anisimova served for the set. However, Pegula broke back and despite failing to serve out for the match at 6-5, kept her composure in the tiebreak to win 6-2 7-6 (1).

She faces Elena Rybakina. The world number five put an end to Iga Swiatek’s Career Grand Slam hopes for this season after a win in their quarter-final match. Rybakina edged a tight first set, crucially breaking in the 12th game as Swiatek served to stay in it. It was domination for the former Wimbledon champion in the second, and she wrapped up a 7-5 6-1 win after one hour and 35 minutes.

The head-to-head is locked at 3-3, though Rybakina has won three of their last four meetings. Her serve was a huge component of her last eight victory as she won 79% of her first serve points. If she replicates a similar performance, she could overwhelm Pegula. However, the American has still not dropped a set and is likely to make this semi-final very competitive if she can remain consistent and extend the rallies at any given opportunity. 

Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina tip: Over 21.5 games