Unseeded Russian player Anna Blinkova made history at the Australian Open by defeating world number three Elena Rybakina in the longest tie-break ever recorded in a singles match at a Grand Slam tournament. The 57th-ranked Blinkova claimed the first set 6-4, and Rybakina, last year’s finalist, responded by winning the second set with the same scoreline.
The pivotal moment occurred in a thrilling tie-break that Blinkova secured 22-20, lasting over 31 minutes and surpassing the previous record of 38 points set by the International Tennis Federation.
Despite missing two match points while serving for victory in the deciding set, Blinkova faced a dramatic sequence of match points exchanged between both players before Rybakina ultimately succumbed. Reflecting on her historic win, Blinkova expressed the challenges of staying focused during the intense moments of the match, stating, “I don’t know what to say, it was super tough.” She emphasized her attempts to maintain aggression despite physical tension, and she shared her overwhelming joy at the victory, labeling the day as the best of her life, especially on the renowned Rod Laver Arena with the supportive crowd.
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