World number one Aryna Sabalenka booked her place in the Brisbane International final for the third straight year after defeating Karolina Muchova 6-3, 6-4 at the Queensland Tennis Centre.
The Belarusian produced a powerful performance to continue her preparations for the Australian Open, where she is targeting a third title in four years.
Power Play From World Number One
Muchova, a French Open runner-up in 2023, had beaten Sabalenka in their previous three encounters. However, this time she struggled to cope with the top seed’s aggressive baseline game.
Despite missing three match points, Sabalenka eventually sealed victory when Muchova sent a forehand long.
“I’m super happy that today was the day when I was able to get the win,” Sabalenka said.
“She is such a great player and I always enjoy battles against her.”
Final Date With Kostyuk
Sabalenka will now face Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk in Sunday’s final. Kostyuk reached the title match after crushing fourth seed Jessica Pegula 6-0, 6-3.
The world number one has a strong record against Kostyuk, having not dropped a set in their four previous meetings. Kostyuk is currently ranked 26th in the world.
Australian Open Build-Up
The Brisbane tournament serves as a key warm-up event ahead of the Australian Open, which runs from 18 January to 1 February.
Sabalenka will be aiming to carry her current form into Melbourne as she looks to defend her crown.
Switzerland Make United Cup Final
Switzerland reached the United Cup final for the first time after a 2-1 victory over Belgium in Sydney.
Decisive Mixed Doubles
Belinda Bencic and Jakub Paul clinched the tie by defeating Elise Mertens and Zizou Bergs 6-3, 0-6, 10-5 in a match tie-break at the Ken Rosewall Arena.
Earlier, Bencic had beaten Mertens in a dramatic three-set singles match. The Swiss star now boasts a perfect 8-0 record in United Cup matches.
“It feels like 170 kilos fell off my shoulders,” Bencic said.
“I was so stressed. I really wanted to do well and today I felt so much pressure to not let my team down.”
Final Awaiting
Switzerland will face either the USA or Poland in the final. The USA are the defending champions, having beaten Poland in last year’s title clash.
Discussion about this post