WTA Finals: Elena Rybakina storms past ill Madison Keys's replacement Ekaterina Alexandrova

Elena Rybakina secured a straight-sets victory against Russian alternate Ekaterina Alexandrova at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, winning 6-4, 6-4. The match was a repeat of their recent encounter at the Ningbo final three weeks ago.Rybakina, currently ranked sixth in the world, has now won nine consecutive matches. She will compete in Friday's semi-finals against either Aryna Sabalenka, Jessica Pegula, or Coco Gauff."Ekaterina is always a tough opponent and has a big serve. I'm happy I was able to win in straight sets. Each win gives you confidence and I'm pretty happy that for now my last matches have been great," said Rybakina, who played with tape on her shoulder.Rybakina had already qualified for the semi-finals as the Serena Williams Group winner before this match. Iga Swiatek and Amanda Anisimova will compete for the remaining semi-final spot.Alexandrova joined the tournament as a replacement for Madison Keys, who withdrew due to illness. Keys had lost her previous matches against Swiatek and Anisimova, eliminating her chances of advancing.
Keys avoided shaking hands with Anisimova after their Monday match to prevent spreading her illness.

"I'm really disappointed to not be feeling my best and ultimately having to withdraw from the tournament. It's a huge accomplishment to make it this far and I'm very proud of myself for doing that and having a great year. I hope to be back next year," Keys stated.Mirra Andreeva, the first alternate who is participating in doubles, declined to sign in for Wednesday's play due to fitness concerns. She remains available as a potential singles alternate for Thursday's matches while continuing her doubles competition with Diana Shnaider.The Stefanie Graf Group will conclude on Thursday. Top-seeded Belarusian Sabalenka will face American Gauff, while Pegula will play against Italian Paolini, who has reported illness symptoms.