Elena Rybakina Faces Belinda Bencic in Abu Dhabi Open Semifinal Amid Coaching Changes

Rybakina seeks to defend her title while navigating recent coaching turmoil and a challenging start to the 2025 season.

Defending champion Elena Rybakina will compete against 2023 Abu Dhabi Open winner Belinda Bencic in the tournament's semifinal.
Rybakina has shown resilience in Abu Dhabi after a tough start to her 2025 season, including a fourth-round exit at the Australian Open.
Belinda Bencic, returning to form after a long hiatus, has reached the semifinal following a three-match winning streak this tournament.
Rybakina recently underwent coaching changes, bringing Davide Sanguinetti on board while her former coach Stefano Vukov remains provisionally suspended by the WTA.
Both players are tied 1-1 in their career head-to-head record, with analysts predicting Rybakina as the favorite based on her aggressive playing style and recent performances.