Australian Open 2025: Aryna Sabalenka's quest for a third consecutive AO title continues, storms into semifinal with dominance win over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka is one step closer to securing a third consecutive title at the Australian Open after battling past Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in a thrilling quarter-final encounter. Sabalenka triumphed with a 6-2, 2-6, 6-3 victory, extending her win streak at Melbourne Park to an impressive 19 matches.

Aryna Sabalenka: rocky start in gusty conditions

While Sabalenka entered the match as the top seed and a favourite to reach the semis, her journey wasn’t without challenges. Gusty winds and a determined opponent put her resilience to the test early on. Despite looking a little shaky in the opening stages, the Belarusian showed why she is one of the game’s top competitors.

"Honestly, I was just praying today. I was just praying to put the ball back in these tough conditions," Sabalenka admitted, reflecting on the physical and mental toll of the match.

Sabalenka had to dig deep, as both players struggled to find consistency in the wind. However, Sabalenka's diverse game, including clever drop shots and powerful backhands, was key in securing an early break and taking the first set.

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova fights back

Pavlyuchenkova, the 27th seed, displayed aggressive tennis throughout the match, making it clear she wasn't going to let Sabalenka have it easy. After losing the first set, the Russian found her rhythm in the second. Sabalenka dropped her serve early, allowing Pavlyuchenkova to level the match, 6-2, and force a decider.

Sabalenka was visibly frustrated after the second set, even splashing cold water on her face during the break. But the world number one quickly regrouped for the final set. She managed to regain control, breaking serve at critical moments and holding firm to take the match 6-3.

After the victory, Sabalenka reflected on her performance: "Sometimes maybe it's good to have these tough battles, to go through it, to be tougher for the last stages of the tournament." The win set her up for a semi-final clash with her best friend, Paula Badosa.

"I wish I would win this match in straight sets but it is how it is. I'm glad I'm in the semis and I cannot wait to play against Paula," Sabalenka said, showing her excitement for the upcoming match.

Sabalenka will now aim for her third consecutive Australian Open title as she prepares for a highly anticipated semi-final showdown.