The second women’s semifinal at the Australian Open 2026 promises high-quality tennis as America’s Jessica Pegula takes on Kazakhstan’s powerful Elena Rybakina. The clash will be played under the lights at Rod Laver Arena, with both players arriving unbeaten in sets this fortnight.
Pegula is chasing her first Australian Open final, while Rybakina, the 2023 finalist, is aiming to return to the title match with her trademark first-strike tennis.
Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina |
| Round | Women’s Singles Semifinal |
| Date | Thursday, January 29, 2026 |
| Venue | Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne |
| Local Time (AEDT) | Around 9:30 PM or later (Night Session – second match) |
| IST (India) | Around 4:00 PM or later |
| GMT | Around 10:30 AM |
| ET (USA) | Not before 5:00 AM |
Jessica Pegula: Form, Journey
At 31, Pegula is enjoying one of the most consistent phases of her career. She has reached the Australian Open semifinal for the first time and has not dropped a set so far.
In the quarterfinals, she defeated fourth seed Amanda Anisimova 6-2, 7-6, showing calm under pressure in the tiebreak. Earlier in the tournament, she also handled top opponents with composure, relying on her clean ball-striking and excellent court coverage.
Pegula’s biggest strengths are her return game, patience in rallies, and ability to absorb pace. This run has also made her one of the few players in the Open Era to reach multiple Grand Slam semifinals after turning 30.
Elena Rybakina: Form
Rybakina enters the semifinal as one of the most dangerous players on hard courts. The 26-year-old has looked ruthless, highlighted by her quarterfinal win over world No.2 Iga Świątek, which she closed out 7-5, 6-1.
She has also not lost a set in Melbourne and is riding a strong streak against top-10 opponents. Her game is built around a big first serve, flat groundstrokes, and early point control, which makes her especially effective under faster indoor conditions.
Having reached the Australian Open final in 2023, Rybakina knows what it takes to go deep in Melbourne.
Also see: Top 10 Hottest Female Tennis Players in 2026
Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina Head-to-Head Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Meetings | 6 |
| Overall | Tied 3–3 |
| Most Recent Match | 2025 WTA Finals – Rybakina won in 3 sets |
| Grand Slam Meetings | First time |
| Recent Trend | Rybakina won last 2 meetings |
Key Tactical Battle
This semifinal is a clear contrast of styles. Pegula thrives on precision, depth, and consistency, while Rybakina looks to end points quickly with her serve and aggressive baseline shots. If rallies extend, Pegula gains an advantage. If Rybakina controls the serve and first ball, she can dictate the match.
Indoor conditions could slightly favor Rybakina’s power game, but Pegula’s return quality may keep things close.
Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina Prediction
Most experts see Rybakina as the favorite due to her serving numbers and recent wins over top players. However, Pegula’s calm temperament and ability to neutralize pace suggest this could be a tight contest.
Prediction: Elena Rybakina to win in three sets, though Pegula is capable of pushing the match deep with her consistency and returns.
With a place in the Australian Open final at stake, this semifinal is set up as precision vs power. Pegula is chasing a breakthrough moment, while Rybakina is looking to return to the biggest stage in Melbourne.
Will Pegula reach her first Australian Open final, or will Rybakina’s firepower prove too strong? Tennis fans can expect a compelling night match at Rod Laver Arena.
