Aryna Sabalenka made a powerful statement at the Brisbane International, securing her spot in the final with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 victory over 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva on Saturday. This win brings her one step closer to claiming her first trophy of the year ahead of her Australian Open title defense later this month.
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Match Highlights
- First Set: Sabalenka saved five break points, narrowly edging the opening set against Andreeva, who previously defeated her in the French Open quarterfinals.
- Second Set: Sabalenka upped her game, breaking early and cruising to victory.
Sabalenka’s Post-Match Comments
“It’s always the same tactic for me, to stay aggressive and put my opponents under pressure,” Sabalenka said. “I was glad I was able to do that against Mirra. It seemed like everything was working really well. She’s an amazing player, and I’m pretty sure she’s going to be in the top 10 very soon. I’m happy to get this win.”
Sabalenka will face Polina Kudermetova in Sunday’s final. Kudermetova reached the final after defeating Anhelina Kalinina 6-4, 6-3, continuing her impressive run from the qualifying rounds.
Dimitrov Out; Opelka to Final
- Grigor Dimitrov‘s title defense ended prematurely due to an injury, retiring while trailing 6-4, 4-4 against Jiri Lehecka.
- Reilly Opelka overcame Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 6-3, 7-6 (4), following his victory over Novak Djokovic. Opelka, battling past injuries, is set for his first final in three years.
Naomi Osaka Closes on First Title Since 2021
Naomi Osaka is closing in on her first title since 2021 after defeating Alycia Parks 6-4, 6-2 at the Auckland Classic. She will face Clara Tauson in the final.
“It’s definitely really important,” Osaka said. “I’m happy to get through to the final. I’ve actually never gotten to the final of the tournament the week before Melbourne. This is a first for me.”
Clara Tauson reached the final after defeating Robin Montgomery 6-4, 6-3, following her stunning win over top seed Madison Keys.
Upcoming Finals
| Tournament | Finalists |
|---|---|
| Brisbane International (Women) | Aryna Sabalenka vs. Polina Kudermetova |
| Brisbane International (Men) | Jiri Lehecka vs. Reilly Opelka |
| Auckland Classic | Naomi Osaka vs. Clara Tauson |
Key Takeaways
- Aryna Sabalenka is in top form, aiming for her first trophy of the year ahead of the Australian Open.
- Reilly Opelka and Naomi Osaka are also poised to break their respective title droughts.
- Sunday’s finals promise intense matches, with players like Sabalenka, Osaka, and Opelka showcasing peak performances.
Stay tuned for more updates as these thrilling tournaments reach their climaxes.
