Kazakhstani tennis star Elena Rybakina recently clinched the Australian Open women's singles title, capturing global attention not only for her powerful performance but also for the remarkable timepiece adorning her wrist: the Vanguart Orb. This elegant accessory, valued at over $230,000, showcases advanced horological craftsmanship, reflecting a fusion of precision engineering and sophisticated design. Her choice of watch has sparked considerable discussion among both tennis enthusiasts and luxury timepiece connoisseurs, highlighting a moment where elite sportsmanship meets high-end fashion.
Rybakina's Championship Moment Embellished by Vanguart Orb
On a pivotal Saturday, February 2, 2026, following her impressive comeback victory in the Australian Open women's singles final, Elena Rybakina was seen wearing the prestigious Vanguart Orb. As she lifted the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup, the rose gold timepiece with its distinct white rubber strap was prominently displayed. This 41mm watch, crafted by Vanguart, an innovative independent Swiss watchmaker established less than a decade ago, is renowned for its technical sophistication. A key feature is its 'orbital mass'—a peripheral rotor that includes a 2mm brilliant-cut diamond, which ingeniously winds the movement as it orbits the dial. The watch also boasts a slim profile of 10.5mm, a flying tourbillon positioned at 6 o'clock, and an innovative crown-pusher that allows seamless switching between manual, automatic, and time-setting modes. The entire mechanism, from design to manufacturing, was developed in-house by Vanguart, underscoring the brand's dedication to integrated craftsmanship. The Vanguart Orb, which perfectly complements Rybakina's composed and strategic playing style, is retailed at approximately 180,000 Swiss francs, making it a coveted item available exclusively at Material Good in North America. Mehmet Koruturk, cofounder of Vanguart, praised Rybakina's unwavering calm and discipline, recognizing her excellence as a reflection of the brand's own values. By associating with Rybakina during her historic run in Melbourne, Vanguart reinforces its 'culture of excellence' on one of the world’s most watched athletic stages. Founded in 2017, the brand benefits from a technical team composed of veterans from Audemars Piguet Renaud & Papi (APRP), ensuring a rich pedigree in watchmaking. Rybakina's journey to this win included a hard-fought 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory over the world No. 1, Aryna Sabalenka, in the final. This adds to her impressive record, having reached the Australian Open finals in 2023 and winning Wimbledon in 2022.
Elena Rybakina's choice to wear such a meticulously crafted and high-value watch during her victory ceremony highlights a fascinating intersection between the worlds of professional sports and luxury goods. Her achievement on the court, characterized by precision, grace, and sustained effort, resonates deeply with the engineering and artistry embedded in the Vanguart Orb. This moment serves as a powerful reminder that true excellence, whether in athletic performance or haute horlogerie, is the result of unwavering dedication and innovative spirit. It also underscores how high-profile endorsements can elevate niche luxury brands onto a global platform, creating a narrative that celebrates both human achievement and artisanal mastery.