The double title holder continues her journey in Melbourne.
At the opening of the day’s session on the Rod Laver Arena, the world number 1, who is emerging as the player to beat in this Australian Open, was opposed to Jessica Bouzas Maneiro for a place in the third round.
Sabalenka, who defeated Sloane Stephens for her entry into the competition in two sets, did not hang around either, even if the match was generally tighter than against the American.
In 1h34 of play, the Belarusian ended up defeating the Spaniard in two sets (6-3, 7-5), although the latter served to win the second set.
This is the 16th consecutive victory for Sabalenka on the courts of Melbourne.
The three-time Grand Slam winner will face Clara Tauson for a place in the second week.
The Dane, victorious in the Auckland tournament to start the year, successively eliminated Linda Noskova (5-7, 6-3, 6-4) then Tatjana Maria (6-2, 6-2).
“She played incredible tennis in the second set, I’m happy I was able to win in two sets.
There are so many players who are at their advantage in these playing conditions. Today’s match showed that.
The girls can come on court and play without pressure, without having anything to lose. They can put you in an uncomfortable position.
You have to fight and be competitive by playing as well as possible,” Sabalenka said after her success.
