The first Australian Open semi-final match is set, as world number 1 Aryna Sabalenka overcame a spirited challenge from Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to secure a hard-fought 6-2, 2-6 victory , 6-3. The Belarusian star will now face her close friend Paula Badosa for a coveted place in the final.
Pavlyuchenkova’s return tests defending champion
Pavlyuchenkova, returning to her best after two years, proved to be one of the surprises of the tournament. The Russian reached her first Grand Slam quarter-final since 2021 and showed her best tennis to challenge the reigning Australian Open champion.
In the first set, Sabalenka seemed to be in complete control, dictating the game and easily winning 6-2. However, Pavlyuchenkova adjusted her game in the second set, breaking Sabalenka twice and ending her opponent’s streak of 22 consecutive sets at Melbourne Park. It was the first set Sabalenka lost in the tournament since the 2023 final against Elena Rybakina.
Pavlyuchenkova’s tactical shift and the precision of her shots highlighted her comeback, but her physical decline in the third set allowed Sabalenka to regain her rhythm and assert her dominance. With a crucial break at the start of the deciding set, Sabalenka sealed her third consecutive appearance in the semi-finals of the Australian Open.
Sabalenka’s Melbourne reign continues
Sabalenka’s victory adds a new chapter to her dominance at Melbourne Park, where she now boasts 19 consecutive match wins. The last time she lost at the Australian Open was in the fourth round in 2022. The Belarusian is seeking her third Grand Slam title and remains a strong favorite to lift the trophy.
-A familiar semi-final rivalry
Sabalenka’s next challenge is a spectacular clash with Paula Badosa, who beat Coco Gauff in the other quarterfinal. The two players know each other well, having faced each other seven times during their careers, with Sabalenka having the advantage with a score of 5-2.
Their semi-final promises to be a high-stakes battle between two fierce friends and competitors. Both players bring power, precision and mental toughness to the court, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
What is at stake?
For Sabalenka, this match is an opportunity to continue her dominance and move closer to her third Grand Slam title. For Badosa, it’s an opportunity to prove her worth against the best players in the world and reach her first Australian Open final.
With Sabalenka’s relentless form and Badosa’s determination, the semi-final clash is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.
