Elena Rybakina says her sister’s positivity and energy help her on bad days

According to Elena Rybakina, her sister Anna's positive energy and support are vital in getting her through challenging moments and in her overall tennis journey.

The 2022 Wimbledon champion is aiming for her first French Open title and her second Grand Slam title overall at the 2023 edition of the claycourt Major. Rybakina is all set to begin her Roland Garros campaign and has been drawn in the same half as World No. 1 Iga Swiatek, who could face her in the semifinals.

In a press conference before the start of the Major, Elena Rybakina acknowledged that her sister Anna Rybakina is making a significant contribution to her career. The sport can get monotonous with its daily routines and constant practice, and the Kazakh appreciates that she can engage in conversations about topics other than tennis with Anna.

"Yeah, I think she's actually helping a lot, because it's still a job. You practice all days, kind of the same routine. With her, if I go back to the room or we go to dinner, we can talk about something else, not only tennis," Rybakina said.

Her sister's positive attitude and energetic nature have a beneficial impact on Rybakina especially during tough times. The 23-year-old values the time spent with her sister and believes that her presence is a valuable source of support and positivity in her life.

"She's very positive. Also, a lot of energy from her. So it's just nice that we are able to spend time together. And, yeah, I think she's also helping, especially if you have a bad day or something, she's the one always positive. So it's good," Elena Rybakina said.

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Elena Rybakina recalls her victory over Serena Williams at French Open, says it gave her confidence

Elena Rybakina and Serena Williams pictured at the 2021 French Open

Elena Rybakina defeated Serena Williams in the fourth round of the 2021 French Open. The Kazakh, who had not even been born when Williams made her tournament debut in 1998, managed to get the better of the legend 6-3, 7-5.

Rybakina fondly recalled her match against Williams, calling it a memorable experience. Back then it was her best result at a Grand Slam, reaching the second week for the first time, which boosted her confidence on clay.

Rybakina is now happy to be back in the French capital and hopes to achieve more success at the tournament.

"Well, I just remember, it's really nice memories when I played against Serena. And as I said, back then it was also my best result on a Grand Slam," Elena Rybakina said.

"I made it to the second week. Also giving me confidence that I can play good on clay. Yeah, just happy to be back and hopefully I'm gonna go far here too," she added.