In a commanding display on Thursday, world number one Aryna Sabalenka defeated Spain’s Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2 to advance to her third consecutive Australian Open final.
Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, now stands on the cusp of becoming the first woman since Martina Hingis (1997-1999) to clinch three successive titles at Melbourne Park. Reflecting on this opportunity, she remarked, “Just saying that, I have goosebumps. I am so proud of myself and my team that we were able to put ourselves in such a situation.”
The match began with Badosa, seeded 11th and participating in her first Grand Slam semi-final, breaking Sabalenka’s serve to take an early 2-0 lead. However, the momentum shifted when rain prompted the closure of the Rod Laver Arena roof. Upon resumption, Sabalenka found her rhythm, winning four consecutive games and capturing the first set 6-4.
In the second set, Sabalenka’s dominance intensified. She capitalized on Badosa’s double faults to secure an early break and surged to a 5-1 lead. Demonstrating her powerful baseline game and unwavering focus, Sabalenka sealed the set 6-2, concluding the match in one hour and 26 minutes.
This victory extends Sabalenka’s winning streak at the Australian Open to 20 matches, underscoring her formidable presence on the hard courts of Melbourne.
The semi-final held added significance due to the close friendship between Sabalenka and Badosa. The two have previously described each other as “soulmates,” often practicing together and sharing off-court moments. Despite their bond, both players approached the match with professional resolve. Sabalenka noted, “We know how to separate things… on the court we are competitors and there is no place for friendship.”
Badosa’s journey to the semi-finals, highlighted by a notable victory over third seed Coco Gauff, marks a significant milestone in her career. Her performance in Melbourne is expected to propel her back into the WTA Top 10 rankings, signaling a promising trajectory for the 27-year-old Spaniard.
Awaiting Sabalenka in the final is the winner of the match between Poland’s Iga Swiatek and American Madison Keys. The outcome of the final will also determine the world number one ranking. If Swiatek advances and wins, she will claim the top spot; otherwise, Sabalenka will retain her position.
As Sabalenka prepares for the championship match, she remains focused on the historic opportunity ahead. “It’s a privilege and if I will be able to put my name in the history [books] it’s going to mean the world to me,” she expressed, underscoring the significance of the potential achievement.
The tennis world now eagerly anticipates the final, where Sabalenka aims to etch her name alongside legends by securing a third consecutive Australian Open title.