World number one Aryna Sabalenka opened her season with an impressive 6-4, 6-0 victory over Mexico’s Renata Zarazua at the Brisbane International. This dominating performance signaled her intent for the upcoming year as she continues to build on her incredible momentum from the previous season.
After receiving a bye in the first round, Sabalenka showcased her powerful game by taking just 63 minutes to dispatch Zarazua, setting up a much-anticipated third-round clash against Kazakhstan’s Yulia Putintseva. With each match, Sabalenka further solidifies her status as one of the leading contenders in women’s tennis.
Entering the season ranked as the top player for the first time in her career is a significant milestone for the Belarusian. This achievement follows her extraordinary victory at the US Open in September, where she captured her first Grand Slam title. With this historic win boosting her confidence, Sabalenka aims to secure her third consecutive Australian Open title in January, a feat that would place her in elite company within the sport.
However, despite the accolades and expectations that accompany her top ranking, Sabalenka expressed that she is not daunted by the pressure. “I have to say I’m past that stage of being under pressure,” she explained, clearly demonstrating her mental resilience. She acknowledged that being in the top five often brings a level of scrutiny related to ranking points and the challenge of defending titles. To maintain her edge, she prefers to center her attention on her performance and personal growth.
“So I always keep myself hungry and I’m always hungry for titles, for wins. Winning is addicting,” Sabalenka stated, reflecting her relentless pursuit of success. This mindset not only fuels her competitive spirit but also serves as motivation as she faces the rigorous challenges on tour.
Last season, Sabalenka reached the final of the Brisbane International, where she encountered a tough matchup against Elena Rybakina. Despite falling short in that match, her journey throughout the tournament served as valuable experience, helping her prepare for the high-stakes matches ahead. As she gears up for the season, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on her performance, eager to see how she harnesses her skills and tackles the expectations of being the world number one.
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