Halep, Rybakina Dubai thriller earns 2020 Match of the Year

1m read 07 Dec 2020 4y ago
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Simona Halep ended a thrilling Middle East Swing with what ended up being 2020's Match of the Year when she outlasted Elena Rybakina

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The former World No.1 rallied from a set down to survive, 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(5) against an inspired opposition who stood on the precipice of a career breakthrough.

Nominated alongside Venus and Serena Williams' Lexington epic, Aryna Sabalenka

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's Ostrava clash, and Naomi Osaka
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and Anett Kontaveit's Cincinnati/New York thriller, Halep and Rybakina proved most unforgettable as the Romanian won the match to capture her 20th career title.

Halep would go on to win two more titles following the COVID-19 lockdown, including a long-awaited victory at the Internazionali BNL d'Italia, and tie Sabalenka for most titles won this season.

Revisit the other contenders for the fans' vote and check out highlights from the match below!

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      2020 Match of the Year Winner: Simona Halep vs. Elena Rybakina

      Match of the Year Contender: Serena vs Venus
      Match of the Year Contender: Sabalenka vs Gauff
      Match of the Year Contender: Osaka vs Kontaveit