Aryna Sabalenka Reaches Third Consecutive Australian Open Final

Double defending champion Aryna Sabalenka defeated Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2 to reach her third consecutive Australian Open final.

Double defending champion Aryna Sabalenka powered her way into her third consecutive Australian Open final, defeating Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2 on Thursday. The 26-year-old Belarusian's victory sets up a thrilling final against either second seed Iga Swiatek or American Madison Keys on Saturday.

Sabalenka's match against Badosa did not begin smoothly, as she trailed 2-0 in the first set due to a series of unforced errors. However, she quickly regained her composure and unleashed her powerful forehand to break Badosa's serve twice and claim the set 6-4.

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In her first Grand Slam semi-final, 11th seed Badosa struggled to cope with the pressure of Sabalenka's relentless attack. The Spanish player's serve was repeatedly targeted, and she eventually double-faulted to concede an early break in the second set. Sabalenka seized the opportunity, racing to a 5-1 lead before sealing the match with a stunning forehand winner.

With her impressive victory, Sabalenka remains on track to claim her fourth Grand Slam title. The world number one will face a formidable opponent in the final, but her dominant performance against Badosa suggests she is well-prepared for the challenge.