“More shocking than her winning Wimbledon” – Tennis fans react to Elena Rybakina’s rare outburst in Indian Wells 2023 match against Paula Badosa

Elena Rybakina faced former Indian Wells champion Paula Badosa in the Round of 32 of the ongoing 2023 tournament.

The World No. 10 prevailed in straight sets (6-3, 7-5) against the former World No. 2. Despite the seemingly straight-forward scoreline, the match was a slightly bumpy ride for Elena Rybakina. The Kazakh cruised through the opening set smoothly, with two break advantages over Paula Badosa.

However, the 2021 Indian Wells champion was the one who struck first in the second set to break the 23-year-old for a 2-1 lead. During the sixth game of the second set, Elena Rybakina made an unforced error on Paula Badosa’s serve. Things were clearly not going the way of the World No. 10, and she appeared visibly frustrated as she threw her racquet on the court after losing the point.

Tennis fans were quick to notice the rare outburst from Rybakina as she is widely known to not express any emotions during her losses as well as victories.

Many fans jokingly remarked that the reigning Wimbledon champion made an attempt to show her frustration with the racquet toss, but it was a poor attempt nonetheless.

“That was the least angry racket toss i have ever seen,” one fan said.

“We all have to start somewhere,” another fan teased.

One fan observed that the Kazakh is more likely to express displeasure during tough moments than express happiness during her victories.

“She’s always been more likely to express frustration, less excited/pumped celebrating,” the fan said.

Here are a few more reactions from fans:

Elena Rybakina through to the round of 16 at Indian Wells 2023 with victory over Paula Badosa

Elena Rybakina may have faltered at the start of the second set against Paula Badosa, but the athlete quickly caught up to her opponent to level the score at 4-4.

She then picked up a crucial break in the final game of the match to defeat the Spaniard 6-3, 7-5.

“When I lost that game [to go down a break in the second set], I was just trying to play point by point. I had a break in the first set, so I knew that it can change quickly,” the Kazakh said after the match. “Was a really tough match, but happy that in the end I managed to win in two sets.”

With the win, Rybakina booked a place in the final 16 at Indian Wells 2023. She will next clash against Russia’s Varvara Gracheva on Tuesday, March 14.