The women’s semifinals of the 2026 Australian Open are set to deliver two high-profile matchups, with world number one Aryna Sabalenka taking on Elina Svitolina, followed by Elena Rybakina facing Jessica Pegula at Rod Laver Arena.
Sabalenka reached the semifinals in Melbourne for the fourth consecutive year and remains unbeaten this season. The Belarusian has not dropped a set during the tournament and is seeking her third Australian Open title in four years.
Svitolina, competing in her first Australian Open semifinal, has also enjoyed a flawless run through the draw. The Ukrainian has never reached a Grand Slam final and is aiming to break new ground with a victory over the top seed.
In the second semifinal, Rybakina meets Pegula in a clash between two players in strong form. Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, advanced to the semifinals after a dominant quarterfinal performance and continues to showcase her powerful serve and baseline game.
Pegula reached her first Australian Open semifinal by maintaining consistency and composure throughout the tournament. The American is seeking her first Grand Slam title and faces one of the toughest tests of her career against Rybakina.
This marks a rare moment in Grand Slam history, with all four semifinalists reaching this stage without losing a single set. It is the first time this has happened at the Australian Open in more than five decades.
The winners of Thursday’s matches will advance to the women’s final on Sunday, where a first-time champion or a multiple-time Melbourne winner could be crowned.
