Sabalenka Powers Past Badosa, Reaches Third Consecutive Australian Open Final

Photo : Reuters

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka proved too strong for her friend and fellow competitor Paula Badosa, securing a 6-4, 6-2 victory on Thursday to advance to her third successive Australian Open final.

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Sabalenka, the world's top-ranked player, will face either Polish second seed Iga Swiatek or American 19th seed Madison Keys in Saturday's championship match. The Belarusian has been unbeatable at Melbourne Park, extending her winning streak to 20 matches.

No player has achieved a three-peat at the Australian Open this century. The last player to accomplish this feat was Martina Hingis in 1999. Only four other women have completed the three-peat: Margaret Court, Evonne Goolagong, Steffi Graf, and Monica Seles.

Sabalenka described the match against Badosa as "super tough" due to their close friendship. Despite this, she remained focused and composed throughout the contest.

Badosa, the 11th seed, had previously stunned world number three Coco Gauff in straight sets to reach her maiden Slam semi-final at the age of 27. However, she struggled to contain Sabalenka's powerful game.

The match began with Badosa gifting Sabalenka a break point in the opening game with a double fault. Although Badosa managed to save the break point, Sabalenka eventually broke back to level the score. She then won three consecutive games to take a 4-2 lead.

The roof was closed due to rain, but this did not hinder Sabalenka's momentum. She wrapped up the first set in 53 minutes with an ace, having hit 19 winners to Badosa's six.

In the second set, Badosa tumbled to the floor while reaching for a shot but quickly recovered. However, Sabalenka broke Badosa's serve twice to take a commanding lead and ultimately sealed the victory.

The win ensures Sabalenka remains world number one, at least until the end of the tournament. If she faces Swiatek in the final, the winner will claim the top ranking.

Badosa's remarkable run to the semi-finals marks a significant comeback for the former world number two. She had spent several months out due to a brutal back injury in 2023 and had considered quitting the sport. Her efforts in Melbourne will see her return to the top 10 for the first time since October 2022.