Elena Rybakina and Jessica Pegula are preparing to face each other for the third time this season in the Miami Open quarterfinals. Aryna Sabalenka is also set to compete against Hailey Baptiste for a place in the semifinals. The winners will join Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova, who have already secured their spots.
Rybakina’s Dominance Over Pegula
Rybakina currently leads Pegula 5-3 in their head-to-head record. Their most recent encounter saw Rybakina defeat Pegula 6-1, 7-6 (4) at the 2026 Indian Wells quarterfinals. This match marks their third meeting this year and their fifth since September, including the Billie Jean King Cup. Rybakina has won the last four matches against Pegula, including the 2025 WTA Finals semifinals and the 2026 Australian Open final, where she ultimately won the title.
Rybakina’s Miami Form
Rybakina has not dropped a set in Miami, conceding no more than four games in any set. She has only been broken once on serve, saving six of the seven break points she has faced. Rybakina said that she needs to serve well and move well because the ball doesn’t bounce as much in Miami compared to Indian Wells.
Pegula Aims to Disrupt Rybakina’s Momentum
Pegula has been performing strongly, reaching the quarterfinal at Indian Wells and making the semifinals in seven consecutive tournaments, including winning the Dubai title in February. She has reached her fifth straight Miami quarterfinal. Pegula acknowledged Rybakina’s current form, stating that Rybakina is the player to beat right now, along with Aryna Sabalenka.
Pegula has broken Rybakina eight times in their last three matches. She hopes to change her approach to try to win next time they play.
Milestones on the Line
Rybakina could win her 16th match against a top 10 player in the PIF WTA Rankings, from last year’s Miami Open. Only Sabalenka (17) has more.
With a win, Pegula could reach the next stage.