In a display of unrelenting prowess, Aryna Sabalenka solidified her status as a tennis powerhouse on the Rod Laver Arena, crushing Qinwen Zheng’s hopes in the women’s singles at the Australian Open. The world No. 2’s remarkable feat of winning 6-3, 6-2 in just an hour not only secured her back-to-back Australian Open titles but also etched her name alongside Victoria Azarenka as the only players to achieve this historic feat at Melbourne Park.
Sabalenka’s path to victory was marked by an exceptional level of dominance. The Belarusian maestro did not drop a single set throughout the fortnight, showcasing her prowess by winning an astounding 28 of her last 29 sets in Melbourne, a streak that included her triumphant run in 2023. This remarkable achievement elevated Sabalenka into an exclusive group of players who have clinched the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup without conceding a set, joining the ranks of Ash Barty, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Lindsay Davenport.
The magnitude of Sabalenka’s win extends beyond her flawless performance at Melbourne Park. With this triumph, she improved her record in major finals to 2-1, cementing her status as the 10th active player on the WTA circuit to have secured multiple Grand Slam victories. The illustrious company includes the likes of Iga Swiatek, Naomi Osaka, Garbiñe Muguruza, Simona Halep, Petra Kvitova, Victoria Azarenka, Angelique Kerber, Svetlana Kuznetsova, and Venus Williams.
About Aryna Sabalenka’s Dominance:
Sabalenka’s victory wasn’t just about statistics; it was a showcase of flawless and aggressive tennis. From the outset, she dictated the pace, breaking Zheng early in the opening set with a ferocious backhand to seize a commanding 2-0 lead. Despite Zheng’s attempts to mount a comeback, the Belarusian remained resolute, fending off break-point opportunities and setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
One notable aspect of the encounter was Zheng’s improved first-serve percentage, rising from 56% en route to the final to an impressive 63%. Despite this positive development, Sabalenka’s dominance in serving was evident. Landing 67% of her first deliveries and conceding a mere six points on her serve in the opening set, Sabalenka showcased not only her aggressive play but also her strategic prowess on the court.
Aryna Sabalenka’s resounding victory at the Australian Open exemplifies her ascendancy in the world of tennis. Her back-to-back titles, coupled with a flawless run and a formidable record in major finals, position her as a force to be reckoned with on the WTA circuit. Sabalenka’s triumph in Melbourne is not just a win; it’s a testament to her skill, determination, and unwavering pursuit of excellence on the tennis court.