Elena Rybakina represented Kazakhstan when she won the 2026 US Open women’s singles title.
Rybakina was born in Moscow, Russia, but has represented Kazakhstan in international tennis since 2018. Her nationality and playing representation are therefore distinct from her birthplace, a detail that can cause confusion in tournament coverage.
Her 2026 US Open triumph was her first championship at Flushing Meadows. She defeated Aryna Sabalenka in the final, 6–4, 5–7, 6–2, after already beating Sabalenka for the 2026 Australian Open title.
Kazakhstan’s association with Rybakina has made her one of the country’s most prominent tennis athletes. Her Grand Slam success also helped her reach the top of the women’s singles rankings during the 2026 season.