Sports
Rybakina Battles Back from Injury to Reach US Open Quarter-Finals, Eyes Top Ranking
Elena Rybakina has advanced to the U.S. Open quarter-finals after overcoming an ankle injury that had raised doubts about her participation in the tournament. The Kazakh player retired from a match at the Cincinnati Open due to the injury, leaving her fitness in question heading into New York. Despite these concerns, Rybakina progressed through the tournament without dropping a single set. Her run included a notable fourth-round victory over Naomi Osaka, a result that puts her in contention for the world number one ranking. Rybakina credited her recovery and performance to the support of her team and the guidance of medical staff who helped her prepare for the tournament. She is now set to face Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen in the quarter-finals. Rybakina has also spoken about her growing fondness for New York and the energy of its crowds, describing a deepening connection to the U.S. Open. (With inputs from agencies.)