Elena Rybakina survives three-set scare to reach Ningbo Open semifinals

Top-seeded Elena Rybakina successfully navigated a challenging quarterfinal encounter at the Ningbo Open on Friday, overcoming a resilient performance from qualifier Katarzyna Kawa. The world number one was forced into a deciding set before eventually securing a 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 victory to keep her title defense alive.

Kawa, who entered the match with momentum following an upset victory over Belinda Bencic, proved to be a difficult opponent. After Rybakina dominated the opening set, the qualifier found her rhythm in the second, breaking the top seed's serve three times to level the match and threaten a significant upset. However, Rybakina regained control in the final set to close out the contest and book her spot in the last four.

The bottom half of the draw features a semifinal clash between Leylah Fernandez and Marie Bouzkova. Fernandez advanced after a hard-fought 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 win against Ekaterina Alexandrova, marking her second tour semifinal appearance of 2026. Her opponent, Bouzkova, earned her place in the final four by defeating fellow Czech player Sara Bejlek in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4.

The tournament has also seen significant developments regarding the season-ending WTA Finals. Earlier this week, Karolina Muchova confirmed her place in the prestigious event following the withdrawal of Iga Swiatek due to a thigh injury and the retirement of Marta Kostyuk during her match in Ningbo due to wrist pain.