Elena Rybakina Eliminates Katie Boulter at Indian Wells

INDIAN WELLS, California — Elena Rybakina, the reigning champion, defeated Katie Boulter 6-0, 7-5 in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open on Sunday, March 9, showcasing both her skill and resilience on the court.

Rybakina, ranked seventh in the world, dominated the first set, winning it in just 26 minutes while securing 80% of her points on first serve. Despite Boulter’s efforts, including coming back from a set down earlier in the tournament, she struggled to match Rybakina’s performance.

In the second set, however, momentum shifted as Rybakina’s service game faltered. Boulter, the British women’s No. 1, held a 5-4 lead while serving for the set. But a spectacular backhand return from Rybakina turned the tide, allowing her to reclaim control and clinch the match.

“I was just trying to get myself back into the game,” Rybakina said after the match. “It was a tough second set, and I’m happy I managed to stay focused.”

Rybakina’s victory came after a quarterfinal appearance in Abu Dhabi and a semifinal run in Dubai earlier this season, solidifying her form prior to Indian Wells. Her upcoming match will be a continuation of her quest to defend her title.

Boulter had an impressive comeback in the previous round, defeating Romania’s Irina-Camelia Begu after dropping the first set. She expressed gratitude for being able to compete so soon after a foot injury and emphasized her determination to enjoy the experience. “I think the biggest win for me today is getting through a whole match,” Boulter said. “Honestly, I’m beaming with that win.”

While Rybakina is positioned as a favorite due to her powerful serve and tactical play, the match highlighted the challenges of returning from injury, a sentiment echoed by Boulter. “Two weeks ago, I was in a boot,” she said. “So my perspective is pretty good… I’ve got absolutely nothing to lose.”

In other matches on Sunday, Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula also advanced in the tournament, defeating their opponents in straight sets. Swiatek dominated Carolina Garcia with a 6-2, 6-0 victory and will face Dayana Yastremska, who upset Ons Jabeur.

Meanwhile, fellow Brit Cam Norrie also progressed after overcoming Czech Republic’s Jiri Lehecka in a three-set fight, further highlighting a strong showing from British players at this year’s event.