The world number 1, Aryna Sabalenka, faced a challenging opening match at this year’s Australian Open. Across the net was Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion and former world number 3. Currently ranked 84th, the American put up a fight in the first set, but the Belarusian ultimately prevailed with a solid victory of 6-3, 6-2.
As the reigning champion in Melbourne for the past two years, Sabalenka starts her quest for a third title, competing in a Grand Slam as the world number 1 for the first time. Notably, she must reach at least the quarter-finals to maintain her position at the top of the rankings. Her next opponent will be the winner of the match between British player Sonay Kartal (#87) and Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro (#52).
The first set was a roller-coaster ride for both players. Initially, Sabalenka dominated, securing a two-break advantage to lead 4-0. However, Stephens fought back, breaking back twice to level the score. When the American served to make it 4-4, she had a game point but failed to convert. Sabalenka capitalized on this opportunity, breaking serve once more to lead 5-3, and then served confidently to clinch the set.
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