Elena Rybakina Leads Kazakhstan to United Cup Win

Elena Rybakina has been instrumental in leading Kazakhstan to a 2-1 victory over Spain in the United Cup, marking her debut in the tournament. She defeated Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the singles match and teamed up with Alexander Shevchenko to win the decisive mixed doubles against Pablo Carreno Busta and Yvonne Cavalle-Reimers. Kazakhstan's victory comes as they eye a spot in the quarter-finals of the 18-nation event by defeating Greece in their next Group C match. Meanwhile, Alexander Shevchenko achieved a major upset by defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas, putting Kazakhstan one win away from qualification. Rybakina, who recently began working with coach Goran Ivanisevic, expressed satisfaction with her performance despite the initial challenges of the season. The United Cup continues with matches in Perth and Sydney until January 5, 2025.