Aryna Sabalenka Kicks Off Australian Open Campaign with Dominant Display

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka begins her Australian Open title defence with a convincing 6-3, 6-2 win over Sloane Stephens.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka commenced her Australian Open title defence with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Sloane Stephens on Sunday. Despite facing a challenging opponent in the 2017 US Open champion, Sabalenka ultimately secured a comfortable win.

Sabalenka initially dominated the match, racing to a 4-0 lead. However, she then experienced a series of unforced errors, allowing Stephens to break back twice and narrow the deficit to 4-3. This setback seemed to galvanize Sabalenka, who responded by becoming more aggressive and creating multiple break-point opportunities.

After failing to convert on her first four break-point chances, Sabalenka finally capitalized on the fifth opportunity to take a 5-3 lead. She then served out the set, securing it in 38 minutes. This marked a decisive turning point in the match, as Sabalenka carried her momentum into the second set to seal the win.

Aryna Sabalenka began her Australian Open title defense with a convincing 6-2, 6-2 victory over Sloane Stephens. Despite Stephens' poor record in Melbourne, having lost in the first round four times in her previous five appearances, Sabalenka acknowledged the challenge posed by her opponent. “It was a tough match, always tough matches against her,” Sabalenka said.

Sabalenka expressed her affection for the Australian Open, stating, “I love this place. Full stadium, I couldn't ask for more.” Her enthusiasm was evident throughout the match, as she secured a double break to take a 5-1 lead in the second set, ultimately wrapping up the win in 1 hour and 11 minutes.

Sabalenka is seeking to become the first player since Martina Hingis in 1999 to win the Australian Open three years in a row. If she achieves this feat, she will join an elite group of women, including Margaret Court, Evonne Goolagong, Steffi Graf, Monica Seles, and Hingis, who have completed the Melbourne three-peat. As the number one seed at a Grand Slam for the first time in her career, Sabalenka is well-positioned to make history.

Sabalenka entered the Australian Open in fine form, having won the Brisbane International last week. Her impressive 2024 season included a maiden US Open title, four WTA Tour titles, seven finals, and the WTA Player of the Year award. Sabalenka's momentum and confidence will serve her well as she navigates the Australian Open draw.