Aryna Sabalenka stands on the brink of cementing her legacy at the Australian Open, just two victories away from claiming her third title in the past four years. This remarkable feat positions her as the favorite in this year's competition.

Sabalenka's Stellar Form

As the reigning world number one, Sabalenka has been nearly unbeatable at Melbourne Park, boasting a loss of only one match out of her last 25 there. Although Madison Keys thwarted her efforts for consecutive wins in 2025, this year she has yet to concede a set en route to the semi-finals.

Dominance on Hard Courts

Sabalenka's prowess isn't confined to the Australian Open; her track record on hard courts is impressive. Across the major Grand Slam stages of the US and Australian Opens, she's suffered just two defeats in 45 matches, further solidifying her status as a frontrunner. However, three top-15 competitors aim to challenge her supremacy.

Rivals in the Semi-Finals

Elina Svitolina, at 31, is making her first appearance in the Australian Open semi-finals. Known for a defensive game in the past, her post-motherhood athletic resurgence has been marked by a more aggressive style. “Finding the chance to strike first is my focus,” Svitolina stated.

Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, poses a formidable threat with her powerful serve and a favorable recent record against top-tier players, including Sabalenka. Before her face-off with Jessica Pegula, Rybakina emphasized the significance of her serve and aggressive play.

Jessica Pegula has reached her third Grand Slam semi-final since 2024, after placing second to Sabalenka at the 2024 US Open. With growing confidence and a broader set of skills, Pegula feels better equipped to face high-stakes matches.

Sabalenka's Mental Game

Despite her achievements, Sabalenka has admitted to struggling emotionally in past tournaments. This vulnerability led her to work with a psychologist to address mental resilience, which proved vital in her tense match against Anastasia Potapova.

Looking Ahead

Sabalenka's journey has seen her reach the semi-finals in 14 of the last 17 Grand Slams, showcasing her consistency, especially on hard courts. She remains focused and determined, saying, “The focus and mentality are key.” As the tournament progresses, all eyes are on whether Sabalenka will add another trophy to her collection.

Source:bbc uk