Elena Rybakina is set to face Alexandra Eala at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. Rybakina hopes to win her first Roland Garros and become No. 1.
Rybakina’s Ambitions and Eala’s Challenge
After early-season successes, Rybakina has grand ambitions. She aims to win her first Roland Garros and take over the No. 1 ranking. However, her momentum was disrupted in Madrid, where she was defeated by Anastasia Potapova. It remains to be seen if this will affect her confidence.
Eala possesses the pace to challenge Rybakina, potentially forcing her to defend. Rybakina is currently ranked 40 spots higher than Eala. She also has a title in Rome and a 28-6 record this season.
Both players favour an aggressive style, attacking early and often. They seemingly don’t prioritise margin.
Rybakina’s Serve Could Be Key
Even if Eala performs well, Rybakina’s superior serve may prove decisive. Rybakina is the favourite to win the match.
Other Matches to Watch in Rome
Alexander Zverev played Alexander Blockx last week in Madrid, with Zverev winning 6-2, 7-5. Zverev said he felt in control from the start. Blockx, however, settled his nerves and got into the rallies, almost pushing the match to a third set.
Zverev is a two-time Rome champion. He appears to have found his form on clay again. Zverev is favoured to win their next match.
Rafael Jodar is scheduled to face Matteo Arnaldi. Jodar has been performing well since March. Arnaldi, once highly touted, faced setbacks due to injury. Arnaldi recently won a Challenger on clay and upset Alex de Minaur.
Arnaldi will have the support of the home crowd. Jodar’s superior weaponry may be enough to overcome that support, and he is favoured to win.
The estimated start time for the Rybakina and Eala match is 10:00 a.m.