By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Friday, January 3, 2024
Photo: Chris Hyde/Getty
Before playing for a Melbourne three-peat, Aryna Sabalenka highlights a major mission in Brisbane.
The world No. 1 is aiming to avenge her stunning 2024 Roland Garros quarter-final loss to the 17-year-old. Mirra Andreeva when the pair face off for a place in the Brisbane final.
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“I’m very happy to be back in Australia. It really feels like home,” Sabalenka said, seeking her second straight final in Brisbane. “I like the atmosphere. It doesn’t matter where you play, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, it’s always a great atmosphere. I am very happy to be back.
“It’s great to start the season, I mean, to play the tournament before the big one.
In theory, the hard blue court should help two-time defending Australian Open champion Sabalenka finish points more effectively.
On the red clay of Paris last summer, then 38th-ranked Andreeva Andreeva defeated Sabalenka 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-4 to reach her first major semi-final.
What a way to qualify for your first Grand Slam semi-final 🤯#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/GLSO8LX6tD
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 5, 2024
Sabalenka, who struggled physically for much of the match with an apparent stomach problem, appeared on the verge of a hard-fought victory. However, credit must go to Andreeva for standing her ground and not being shaken by the whole moment.
Andreeva’s stunning upset ended Sabalenka’s 23-set Grand Slam winning streak.
This will be the third overall meeting between the duo and the first on a difficult court. Sabalenka has captured 15 of her 17 career championships on hard courts, including three Grand Slam titles.
