The second Women’s Singles semifinal at the Australian Open 2026 pits two of the WTA Tour’s most powerful players — Jessica Pegula and Elena Rybakina — against one another in a blockbuster showdown at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. Both players are in outstanding form, setting up a compelling battle with a spot in the final on the line.
In this detailed betting odds and match preview, we break down the latest market prices, head-to-head trends, statistical edges, and best wager opportunities ahead of this semifinal.
Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina Match Overview
Match: Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina
Round: Women’s Singles Semifinal
Tournament: Australian Open 2026
Surface: Hard Court (Melbourne Park)
Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina Latest Betting Odds (1xBet)
Pegula to win: 2.80
Rybakina to win: 1.48
A tight betting market reflects two elite players with similar odds to progress to the final, with Rybakina slightly favoured by some books based on recent big wins. (Market composite based on trending odds insights)
Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina Head-to-Head Battle
All-time H2H: Tied 3–3
Recent form: Split results suggest a balanced rivalry with no clear recent dominance.
This head-to-head parity underpins the close betting odds and supports the expectation of a competitive semifinal.
Road to the Semifinal
Jessica Pegula
Pegula stormed into her first Australian Open semifinal with a straight-sets victory over fellow American Amanda Anisimova. Her powerful baseline game and tactical consistency helped her control the quarterfinal from the outset.
Her result continues an excellent tournament run — Pegula has not lost a set in Melbourne Park so far, displaying strong serve placement and fewer unforced errors.
Elena Rybakina
Rybakina reached the semifinal by stunning world No. 2 Iga Świątek in straight sets, using her imposing serve and aggressive groundstrokes to overwhelm the former finalist.
This dominant performance makes her one of the most dangerous players in the draw, especially on fast hard courts that amplify her serving weapons.
Key Matchup Factors
Serving and Power
Rybakina’s Serve: One of the biggest weapons in women’s tennis. Her ability to hit aces and force weak returns gives her a clear advantage in short points.
Pegula’s Consistency: While not quite matching Rybakina’s raw power, Pegula’s serve and depth help neutralize aggressive hitters and set up controlled baseline rallies.
Tactical Play
Pegula: Excellent at constructing points, with depth and angles that can frustrate heavy hitters.
Rybakina: Prefers to take the ball early and dominate with aggressive patterns.
This duel of power vs precision will likely dictate the trajectory of the match.
Betting Angles & Best Bets
1. Rybakina to Win
With her dominant quarterfinal performance and proven big-match serve, Rybakina is a strong favourite in many bookmakers’ eyes.
Risk: Moderate | Why: Impressive form and power advantage.
2. Over 2.5 Sets
Given the even head-to-head and high-quality serving from both players, this is a strong candidate for extra value.
Risk: Medium | Why: Balanced rivalry and potential for momentum swings.
3. Rybakina Set Bet
Even if you back Pegula to win, taking Rybakina to win a set can be a solid play because of her ability to serve through pressure moments.
Risk: Medium-High | Why: Powerful service games that can swing sets rapidly.
4. Total Games Over (e.g., 20.5)
If both players hold serve comfortably and extend games, this prop could offer attractive odds.
Risk: Medium | Why: Strong servers often inflate total game counts.
Prediction:
👉 Elena Rybakina edges Jessica Pegula in a tight battle, with the match likely to extend beyond two sets given their head-to-head parity and match rhythm this tournament.
Expect powerful serving from Rybakina and tactical construction from Pegula, making over games and set props potentially rewarding bets.
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