Rybakina Stops Swiatek From Reaching Back-To-Back Indian Wells Final

Reigning Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina defeated world number one Iga Swiatek in straight sets to get through to the Indian Wells final in the California desert.

Swiatek who was bidding to defend her title lost 6-2 6-2 to the Kazahk 10th seed who dominated the match in one hour and 17 minutes.

This makes it the second time Rybakina has beaten Poland's Swiatek this season after defeating her at the Australian Open. 

"With Iga, she's tough, really tough opponent, but when I play this good and everything goes in -- because today some moments I played, I would say, on my highest level -- [these are] moments where you can feel, okay, I can beat anyone if I always play like this.

"But it's the goal, you never feel amazing and perfect every match. 

"I think today it was just really good from me," Rybakina said.

She will now face world number two Aryna Sabalenka who beat world number seven Maria Sakkari 6-2 6-3 to reach the final.

The tie between the pair will be a rematch of the Australian Open final in January.

Sabalenka emerged victorious having edged Rybakina 4-6 6-3 6-4 to clinch her first major title.

"I think [the key will be] just to play better in these important moments and hold the serve, because I think a few times it was just because of one break," Rybakina said. 

"It's gonna be not an easy match, and it's gonna be in these clutch moments I just need to play better. 

"Hopefully now it's gonna change the score between us."