Sabalenka overcomes Pavlyuchenkova challenge to secure spot in Australian Open semi-finals
Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka (26) advanced to the semi-finals of the Australian Open following a hard-fought victory over Russian 27th seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (33), with a scoreline of 6-2, 2-6, 6-3. This win propels her pursuit of a third consecutive title at Melbourne Park.
Initially, Sabalenka appeared somewhat unsettled in her ambition to become the first woman to achieve a "three-peat" since Martina Hingis from 1997 to 1999. The top seed had to contend with challenging winds and a determined opponent, ultimately extending her winning streak in Melbourne to 19 matches.
"Honestly, I was just praying today. I was just praying to put the ball back in these tough conditions," Sabalenka remarked.
"We both were trying to put the ball back. It was very difficult to play. She played amazing tennis, aggressive. I'm super happy I was able to somehow magically win this match."
After three straightforward service holds at the beginning of the match, Sabalenka showcased the diversity she has incorporated into her game, executing a drop shot from deep to earn break points, which she converted with a powerful backhand.
Pavlyuchenkova, who has the word "MEOW" tattooed on her leg, in stark contrast to the tiger tattoo on Sabalenka's arm, attempted to mount a comeback in a closely contested game that followed but found herself in a precarious position at 4-1 after hitting a shot into the net.
"I was born in the year of the tiger, and I literally dreamt for six months about getting a tiger tattoo," Sabalenka explained regarding the animal that symbolizes her spirit.
"After six months of this crazy dream, I thought, 'you know what, I have to go and get it done,' and now it serves as a reminder to never give up, to stay aggressive, to remain hungry, and to push yourself regardless of what is happening in your life."
A running crosscourt winner secured the first set for Sabalenka, but she squandered break points early in the subsequent set before losing her serve for the first time, as Pavlyuchenkova displayed her own array of powerful shots.
Sabalenka refreshed her face with cold water after losing her serve once more, falling behind 4-1. Although she managed to recover one game with a sliced winner, the world number one permitted Pavlyuchenkova to equalize the match on Rod Laver Arena.
The initial stages of the deciding set saw multiple breaks of serve before Sabalenka regained her composure, holding her serve to take a 3-2 lead. She then secured a vital break to extend her advantage to 5-3, ultimately leading her to victory and setting up a match against her close friend Paula Badosa.
"Sometimes it may be beneficial to endure these challenging matches, as it prepares you to be stronger in the later rounds of the tournament," Sabalenka remarked.
"I would have preferred to win this match in straight sets, but it is what it is. I am pleased to be in the semifinals and eagerly anticipate playing against Paula."
SportsLigue