The Championships, Wimbledon witnessed another major upset as former champion Elena Rybakina crashed out in the third round following a straight-sets defeat to Belgium’s Elise Mertens on Saturday.

Mertens delivered an impressive performance on Court One, defeating the world No. 2 7-6 (7-4), 6-1 to secure her place in the fourth round. Rybakina, who captured the Australian Open title earlier this year, had been hoping to add a second Wimbledon crown to her collection after winning the prestigious tournament in 2022.

The 27-year-old’s latest defeat continues a disappointing run at Grand Slam events, following her second-round exit at the French Open. Rybakina has now failed to progress beyond the third round in her last two Wimbledon appearances.

For Mertens, the victory marks her fourth appearance in the Wimbledon singles last 16. A two-time Wimbledon doubles champion, the Belgian will next face 21st seed Marie Bouzkova for a place in the quarter-finals.

Mertens’ best Grand Slam singles result remains her semi-final run at the Australian Open.