Sabalenka Battles Past Pavlyuchenkova to Reach Australian Open Semis

Aryna Sabalenka overcame a tough challenge from Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to reach the Australian Open semifinals, extending her Melbourne win streak to 19 matches.

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka secured a hard-fought 6-2, 2-6, 6-3 victory over 27th seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to advance to the semi-finals of the Australian Open. Sabalenka's win marks her 19th consecutive triumph at Melbourne Park, as she bids to become the first woman to achieve a “three-peat” since Martina Hingis from 1997-99.

The top seed faced a formidable challenge from Pavlyuchenkova, who pushed Sabalenka to her limits in the gusty winds. Sabalenka acknowledged the difficulties she faced, saying, “Honestly, I was just praying today. I was just praying to put the ball back in these tough conditions.” She also praised Pavlyuchenkova's aggressive gameplay, noting, “We both were trying to put the ball back. It was very difficult to play. She played amazing tennis, aggressive.”

Despite the challenges, Sabalenka expressed her relief and joy at securing the win, saying, “I'm super happy I was able to somehow magically win this match.” The defending champion's Melbourne win streak now stands at 19 matches, and she will look to continue her momentum in the semi-finals.

Sabalenka's Variety and Determination Pay Off

The match between Aryna Sabalenka and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova began with three straightforward holds of serve. However, Sabalenka soon showcased the variety she has added to her game, using a clever drop shot from deep to earn break points. She then converted the break with a powerful backhand, demonstrating her familiar aggressive style.

Pavlyuchenkova, who has a distinctive “MEOW” tattoo on her leg, attempted to fight back but found herself in trouble, down 4-1 after a shot into the net. Sabalenka, who has a tiger tattoo on her arm, revealed the significance of her tattoo, saying, “I was born in the year of the tiger and I literally dreamt for six months about getting a tiger tattoo.” She added, “After six months of this crazy dream, I was like 'you know what, I have to go and get it done' and now, it's a reminder to never give up and just stay aggressive, stay hungry and push yourself no matter what's going on in your life.”

Third consecutive AO semifinal, chasing a third straight AO title 🐯#AO2025 pic.twitter.com/g3nUGkakoZ

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 21, 2025

Sabalenka secured the first set with a running crosscourt winner but struggled in the second set, squandering break points and surrendering her serve. Pavlyuchenkova showcased her own impressive shots, and Sabalenka found herself 4-1 down. Despite pulling one break back, Sabalenka allowed Pavlyuchenkova to level the contest. However, Sabalenka regained her composure in the decider, securing a crucial break to go 5-3 up and eventually booking her spot in the semi-finals.

𝟭𝟵-𝟬 at Melbourne Park 😍

Aryna Sabalenka's title defence is STILL ALIVE as she battles past Pavlyuchenkova's challenge 6-2 2-6 6-3. #AusOpen • #AO2025 pic.twitter.com/AyJnkxpyo8

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 21, 2025

Sabalenka reflected on the tough battle, saying, “Sometimes maybe it's good to have these tough battles, to go through it, to be tougher for the last stages of the tournament.” Although she had hoped for a straight-sets win, Sabalenka was relieved to have secured the victory. She expressed her excitement about facing her best friend, Paula Badosa, in the semi-finals, saying, “I'm glad I'm in the semis and I cannot wait to play against Paula.”