Bencic reaches first WTA final since becoming a mother

The 27-year-old only played her first tour event just over a month ago but has wasted no time getting back up to speed, reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open. 

And now she will compete for her first title since lifting the trophy in Abu Dhabi two years ago after beating top seed Rybakina 3-6 6-3 6-4 on Friday. 

Bencic, the 2021 Olympic gold medallist and a former world No.4, hit back impressively after losing the opening set to set up a final clash with American Ashlyn Krueger, who defeated Czech Linda Noskova 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 in the other last-four encounter.

"I'm so happy this is happening," said Bencic in her on-court interview. "I'm excited that the results are coming so fast. I have a long way to go but I'm really happy how it's working on the court."