Aryna Sabalenka, the two-time reigning champion of the Australian Open, wasted no time in starting her 2025 title defence with a dominant performance over Sloane Stephens. The Belarusian powerhouse defeated the 2017 US Open winner 6-3, 6-2, securing her spot in the second round with ease.
Sabalenka’s powerful start to the match
Sabalenka wasted no time asserting her dominance in the match, storming to a 4-0 lead in the opening set. Stephens, unable to cope with Sabalenka’s relentless power and precision, struggled to find a rhythm early on. The world number one’s strong serving and aggressive groundstrokes left Stephens scrambling to keep up.
However, Sabalenka’s composure briefly faltered, allowing Stephens to break back twice in a row. But the Belarusian quickly regained control, breaking Stephens' serve again and closing out the first set with confidence.
No Let-Up in the second set
The second set proved to be even more one-sided, as Sabalenka maintained her relentless attack. Two breaks of serve from Stephens set the tone for the set, allowing Sabalenka to serve for the match at 5-2. With poise and determination, she sealed the win on her first opportunity, ensuring a flawless start to her 2025 campaign.
A winning streak and personal milestone
After her victory, Sabalenka took a moment to celebrate with the jubilant crowd in Melbourne, dancing on court during her post-match interview. The 26-year-old expressed her love for the Australian Open, stating, “It feels like home” as she extended her winning streak in Melbourne to 15 consecutive matches.
The victory also placed Sabalenka in rare company, as she became the first player to win 15 straight matches in the Australian Open women’s singles since Victoria Azarenka, who achieved an 18-match winning streak between 2012 and 2014. Sabalenka is also on a remarkable run of 17 straight first-round victories at Grand Slam events, with her last opening-round loss coming in Melbourne in 2020 to Carla Suarez Navarro.
Looking Ahead: Sabalenka's quest for a historic third Australian Open Title
As Sabalenka looks ahead to the rest of the tournament, her focus remains on making history. She is chasing a third consecutive Australian Open title, aiming to become the first woman to accomplish the feat since Martina Hingis in 1997. With her current form, Sabalenka is undoubtedly a strong contender for yet another major victory.