Aryna Sabalenka made an emphatic start to her campaign at the Brisbane International, dispatching Renata Zarazúa in a commanding performance. The world’s number one showed her class despite initial hiccups, securing a 6-3, 6-0 victory against the Mexican world number 75. Sabalenka displayed a blend of immense power and finesse, though her first set was marred by inconsistency, marked by an increase in unforced errors. After conceding a setback, losing her serve, and allowing Zarazúa to level at 3-3, Sabalenka recalibrated her approach.
The Belarusian refocused in the second set, which she described as “perfect,” amplifying her game to shut out Zarazúa completely. Her improved precision was evident as she committed only six unforced errors compared to thirteen in the first set. This dominance, completed in just over an hour, underscores Sabalenka’s formidable presence as she gears up for her title defense at the Australian Open.
Sabalenka expressed her delight at returning to Australia, where she has found considerable success, winning crucial tournaments and clinching back-to-back Australian Open titles. Anticipation builds as she aims for a third consecutive crown, a feat last achieved by Martina Hingis in the late ’90s. With a successful opening match behind her, Sabalenka looks forward to continuing her prosperous journey on Australian courts.
