India, Feb. 1 -- Elena Rybakina finally won her second Grand Slam title with a victory over top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka at the Australian Open on Saturday, and it was something of a testament to quiet achievers. Outwardly showing no signs of nerves or distress, Rybakina closed with an ace to cap a third-set comeback and a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 win over a regular rival who beat her in the final in 2023.

"The heart rate was definitely beating too fast. Even maybe (my) face didn't show, but inside it was a lot of emotions," said the 26-year-old Rybakina, who was born in Moscow but represents Kazakhstan. "It's an opportunity to close. I knew that the only advantage I have in this moment (is) I have to serve it out."

She capitalised quickly, just two...