Elena Rybakina knows how to win a trophy at Indian Wells, but her latest victory saw her stuck in an awkward situation with a tournament sponsor.
Rybakina teamed up with Taylor Fritz in the mixed doubles Eisenhower Cup exhibition event for the second season in a row, with the pair collecting the trophy once again.
American duo Amanda Anisimova and Learner Tien were called to face the star duo, who powered to a 10-7 win courtesy of their notorious big service games.
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Fritz and Rybakina received a cheque of over $284,000 AUD for their success and were also each presented a winner’s trophy by tournament sponsors.
Taylor Fritz and Elena Rybakina pose with their trophies after winning the Eisenhower Cup Tie Break Tens. Getty
It was then the women’s Australian Open champion became stuck in an uncomfortable position as senior vice president of Eisenhower Health David Renker approached her.
Renker moved in to place his arm behind Rybakina at the trophy presentation, preparing to take a photo with her and American teammate Fritz.
However, as he did so, the two-time champion swiftly pushed his arm away.
Renker was quick to take a step back after the incident, while Rybakina made a quick glance in his direction before turning back to the cameras in front of her.
No statement on the matter has been made by the tournament, Fritz or Rybakina.
Elena Rybakina moves a tournament sponsor’s hand away. Twitter
Instead, the pair carried on with their post-match celebrations as per usual, declaring their appreciation for the other’s talent and their joy to win yet again.
“I am super happy,” Rybakina said post-match.
“Hopefully I can do the same thing in the singles.”
Fritz, 28, admitted the win was made easier for him thanks to the Kazak’s talent.
“I mean, I can’t really volley all that work so it works out great,” he laughed, speaking with the Tennis Channel post-match.
“She serves great too, so it makes my life really easy.
Taylor Fritz and Elena Rybakina in action. Getty
“I have spent a lot of time here growing up, so it is always special being here.
“It feels familiar playing here. Even before I was a pro, I have always played well here.”
Rybakina and Fritz will return to the courts in the Riverside County in California on Saturday to begin their campaigns in the main draw of the Indian Wells Masters.
Neither player’s first round opponent has been confirmed.