Elena Rybakina has helped Kazakhstan through a brutal mixed doubles final to claim victory in a thrilling tie-breaker against Team Spain at the United Cup.
Taking to the court for the first time under new coach Goran Ivanisevic – 2001 Wimbledon champion and former world number two – Rybakina showed no signs of letting her opponents through.
The world number six cruised to victory against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-2, 6-3, before returning to the court with Alexander Shevchenko for the doubles.
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Elena Rybakina and Alexander Shevchenko. Getty
The pair, facing Pablo Carreno Busta and Yvonne Cavalle-Reimers, produced some blistering backhand shots to claimed an early lead over their rivals.
But the duo quickly found themselves battling in a tie-breaker to end on top in the first set.
The end of the tie-break marked the first hour of playing time, with Rybakina's power proving to be the key difference on the court.
With a defeat positioning Kazakhstan at risk of missing qualification and scores level after the second set, Rybakina and Shevchenko were forced to battle through yet another tie-breaker.
The fierce cross-court tie-breaker rally ended in favour of Kazakhstan, recording a 7-6(4), 6-7(2), 10-7 win.
"If Elena was not carrying me this match, we would lose," Shevchenko said post-match.
Elena Rybakina and Alexander Shevchenko. Getty
"The match was super, super tiring, very emotional. It was great to win for the team.
"It was super fun. We play [mixed doubles] maybe once or twice a year. It's unbelievable, especially when you have a partner like Elena.
"She is hitting the ball so well. It's unbelievable."
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Rybakina did not hold back the praise for her teammate either, stating the win could not be achieved if they had not taken to the court together.
"It's really nice being here for the first time and having the support of the team," Rybakina replied after hearing the praise of her teammate.
"It was such a tough match and thanks to him, we had some really good serves."
The 2-1 win positions Kazakhstan atop of Group C, with Team Greece their next opponent.
Spain will be back in action before Kazakhstan meets the Greeks, with the Spaniard taking on the rival nation on Saturday.