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On Monday, Elena Rybakina faced Paula Badosa in the Round of 32 of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells. Rybakina prevailed in straight sets (6-3, 7-5), but the match was a slightly bumpy ride for her.
The Kazakh cruised through the opening set, with two breaks of serve. But Badosa, the 2021 Indian Wells champion, struck first in the second set as she broke for a 2-1 lead.
During the sixth game of the second set, Elena Rybakina made an unforced error on Paula Badosa’s serve. Things were clearly not going the way of the World No. 10, and she appeared visibly frustrated as she threw her racquet on the court.
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Tennis fans were quick to notice the rare outburst from Rybakina, who is known to not express any emotions during her losses or victories. Many jokingly remarked that the reigning Wimbledon champion's attempt to show her frustration was rather sedate.
"That was the least angry racket toss i have ever seen," one fan said.
"We all have to start somewhere," another fan teased.
One fan claimed that Rybakina is more likely to express displeasure during tough moments than to express happiness after her victories.
"She’s always been more likely to express frustration, less excited/pumped celebrating," the fan said.
Here are a few more reactions from fans:
Elena Rybakina to face Varvara Gracheva in Round of 16 at Indian Wells 2023
Elena Rybakina may have faltered at the start of the second set against Paula Badosa, but she quickly caught up to level the score at 4-4. She then picked up a crucial break in the final game of the match to defeat the Spaniard 6-3, 7-5.
"When I lost that game [to go down a break in the second set], I was just trying to play point by point. I had a break in the first set, so I knew that it can change quickly," the Kazakh said after the match. "Was a really tough match, but happy that in the end I managed to win in two sets."
With the win, Rybakina has booked a place in the final 16 at Indian Wells 2023. She will next take on Russia’s Varvara Gracheva on Tuesday, March 14, in a bid to reach the quarterfinals.
