ASTANA – Elena Rybakina has made history for Kazakhstan, becoming the first athlete from the country to rise to the top of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) singles rankings, a breakthrough that puts Kazakh tennis at the summit of the sport.
Photo credit: Elena Rybakina’s Instagram account.
Rybakina secured the top position in the WTA live rankings after defeating China’s Qinwen Zheng in the quarterfinals on Sept. 9. She overtook Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka, who had previously held the top spot. The official rankings will be updated on Monday, Sept. 14.
Rybakina is the first player representing Kazakhstan, in either women’s or men’s singles, to reach the leading position in the global rankings.
Rybakina later reflected on the milestone in an Instagram post, highlighting its significance for her country.
“Anything is possible when you believe! Proud to represent Kazakhstan and make history as the country’s first world number 1,” she wrote.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated Rybakina on the achievement, praising her talent, dedication and determination.
“Reaching the top of the WTA rankings is a sporting pinnacle achieved by you through phenomenal talent, tremendous hard work and an unwavering belief in yourself,” Tokayev said in his congratulatory message.
He noted that the achievement had brought prominence to Kazakh sport and placed Rybakina’s name in the history of world tennis.
“Your journey serves as an inspiring example for thousands of young athletes in our country and millions of tennis fans around the world,” Tokayev said.
Tokayev also highlighted Rybakina’s conduct both on and off the court, noting her high standards of behavior and communication with people from different backgrounds.
He wished the tennis player continued success and urged her to maintain her champion’s mindset as she pursues new achievements.
Rybakina’s rise to the top marks a landmark moment for Kazakhstan’s tennis, giving the country its first-ever world No. 1 in singles and adding a new chapter to its sporting history.
On Sept. 11, Rybakina will face U.S. Coco Gauff in the semifinals.
