All About Tennis Star Elena Rybakina’s Older Sister, Ann

**Elena Rybakina’s Sister Plays a Vital Role in Her Tennis Journey**

Elena Rybakina, the two-time Grand Slam champion and recent semifinalist at the 2026 US Open, attributes much of her positive mentality in the competitive world of tennis to her older sister, Ann Rybakina. While Elena battles it out on the court, Ann is a steadfast supporter, offering encouragement and companionship during the ups and downs of a professional tennis career.

Born to Andrey and Ekaterina Rybakina in Moscow, the Rybakina sisters share a close bond, despite their different paths in the world of sports. Ann, who is three years older than Elena, has opted for a life away from professional athletics, allowing her to fully support Elena on the international tennis circuit. Elena, who switched her sporting allegiance to Kazakhstan in 2018, has publicly expressed gratitude for Ann’s unwavering support during challenging phases of her career.

During a press conference in 2023, after Ann joined her on tour, Elena remarked on the benefits of having her sister around. “She’s very positive and brings a lot of energy,” Elena stated. “It’s just nice that we can spend time together. She helps me, especially on bad days, as she’s always the one who remains upbeat.” This camaraderie has proven invaluable, particularly in high-pressure situations during tournaments.

Despite representing Kazakhstan, both sisters were raised in Russia, where tennis played an influential role in their upbringing. Andrey Rybakina, their father, introduced them to the sport; however, Ann quickly realised that tennis was not her passion. “When my dad took us to play, my sister said right away that she didn’t like it,” Elena recounted. “I took to it immediately, even though it was tough going without her by my side.” This early divergence in their paths demonstrates the individual journeys they have undertaken while remaining close to one another.

Ann’s role as a supportive figure extends beyond mere encouragement; she has become a constant presence at many of Elena’s competitions. When Ann can join her sister, the results often speak for themselves. “Every time she’s with me, it’s always good results,” Elena noted. Their family support has been a crucial factor in both monumental wins, like at Wimbledon and the Australian Open, further solidifying Ann’s impact on Elena’s performance.

Off the court, the sisters indulge in adventures together that provide a refreshing break from the pressures of elite sports. Ann is known for her love of travel, often documenting her journeys around the world on social media. Whether it’s a thrill-seeking day at Universal Studios in Orlando or a visit to Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, the sisters make the most of their time together in various cities.

While Ann is passionate about travelling and exploring new cultures, she also cherishes quality time spent with her sister. When they were both in Indian Wells in March 2023, the two would often find solace in cooking together, taking the opportunity to bond and share updates from home. “We just talk a lot because I hadn’t seen her in a long time,” Elena shared. “She fills me in on news from our parents, and it’s always a good time to spend with her.”

Despite the high-stakes environment of professional tennis, the relationship between Elena and Ann remains grounded. Ann’s emotional support has been invaluable, particularly during intense matches. Elena candidly noted that her sister tends to show signs of anxiety in the stands, reflecting the passion and support she embodies. “She’s very emotional and she supports me a lot,” Elena commented, highlighting the heavy attachment between the siblings amidst the tension of competitive tennis.

As she continues to forge her path in the sport, Elena Rybakina’s relationship with her sister underscores the importance of familial bonds in high-pressure environments. With Ann by her side, whether physically or emotionally, Elena has a strong foundation of support that enhances her performance as she strives for further success on the court. In a world where the spotlight often shines brightly on individual athletes, the story of these two sisters reveals how collaborative support can be equally as vital.