Sabalenka Aims for Third Consecutive Australian Open Title with Determined Mindset

Aryna Sabalenka is taking a straightforward yet effective approach as she strives for a third successive Australian Open title. After her quarterfinal victory over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, where she faced a rollercoaster of emotions ending with a score of 6-2, 2-6, 6-3, Sabalenka expressed her commitment to focusing on each match in detail. She emphasized that if she can deliver her best performance or at least showcase her fighting spirit, she believes she can secure three consecutive titles.

Trusting in her abilities was essential for Sabalenka during her match when she found herself in a tough spot against Pavlyuchenkova, the 27th seed. After dropping the second set, Pavlyuchenkova gained the upper hand, breaking Sabalenka early in the third set. Nevertheless, Sabalenka utilized her championship experience, managing to break back and then securing five out of the next six games to win the match and advance to face Paula Badosa in the semifinals.

Sabalenka reflected on the match, stating, "I was all over the place," but she felt relief at having managed to regain her composure and turn the match around amidst the struggle. With a chance to emulate legendary players like Martina Hingis and others who have pulled off three-peat wins at the Australian Open, she acknowledged the significance of this opportunity, expressing her gratitude for being in a position to aspire to such greatness.

Looking ahead, Sabalenka recognizes the challenge Badosa poses, particularly after Badosa's strong performance against Coco Gauff in the quarters. However, she is determined to concentrate on her own game plan, focusing on aggressive play and applying pressure to her opponent.