World number one Elena Rybakina advanced to the semi-finals of the Ningbo Open after overcoming Poland’s Katarzyna Kawa in a three-set match on Friday. The top-seeded and defending champion secured a 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 victory in eastern China, rebounding after losing momentum in the second set.

Rybakina, who was born in Moscow but represents Kazakhstan, dominated the first set but was briefly challenged by the 128th-ranked Kawa before regaining control in the deciding set. Her next opponent will be Russia’s sixth seed Diana Shnaider, who triumphed over fourth-seeded American Iva Jovic in three sets.

The other semi-final features Canada’s Leylah Fernandez against Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic.

Rybakina, 27, captured her third Grand Slam title at the US Open in September, reaching the world number one ranking by overtaking Aryna Sabalenka. However, she experienced an early exit in Beijing earlier this month and subsequently withdrew from the Wuhan Open due to a foot injury. Her performance in Ningbo marks a strong return as she seeks to defend her title.