With a fiery display of power and finesse, Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus began her quest for a historic third consecutive Australian Open title, defeating America's Sloane Stephens 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday. 🎾🔥
The world number one didn't have it all her own way at Rod Laver Arena, getting broken twice in the first set by the tenacious Stephens. But Sabalenka, known for her explosive forehand, regrouped to claim her 15th straight win at hardcourt Grand Slams.
\"I just love the people, love the crowd. I love all the support I feel during basically every match I play here,\" Sabalenka shared, beaming about the electric atmosphere of the arena. \"It's just an incredible feeling. I just want to keep winning as long as I can just to feel the atmosphere.\" 💖👟
Sabalenka raced to a 4-0 lead in the opening set, leaving fans barely settled in their seats. Though Stephens fought back to 4-3, the Belarusian's resilience and aggressive net play sealed the set. A few years ago, such a comeback might have rattled her, but Sabalenka's mental game has clearly leveled up.
\"In that moment I would get frustrated and probably would lose the first set,\" she admitted. \"I'm really glad that I improved my mental toughness, let's say.\" 🧠💪
The second set showcased Sabalenka's versatility, as she mixed powerful groundstrokes with delicate drop shots, leaving Stephens struggling to keep up. The match wrapped up in just 71 minutes, with Sabalenka looking every bit the champion she's aiming to be.
Next up, she'll face Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the second round, with eyes set on becoming the first woman since Martina Hingis (1997-1999) to achieve an Australian Open \"threepeat.\" Can she make history? Stay tuned! 🏆🇦🇺
Meanwhile, on the same day, China's Wang Xinyu faced a tough first-round exit against Spain's No. 11 seed Paula Badosa, falling 6-3, 7-6(5). Despite leading early in the second set tiebreak, Wang was ultimately undone by unforced errors.
\"She's a very aggressive type of player, but actually today I felt more like I was more aggressive,\" Wang reflected after the match. \"I gained some points and then there were some errors, but I feel like this is the tennis I want to play.\" 🎾✨
Wang's optimism shines through, and we're sure she'll be back stronger. Keep an eye on this rising star! 🌟
Reference(s):
Sabalenka starts Australian Open 'threepeat' bid by beating Stephens
cgtn.com
