Sabalenka unfazed by early exits of top players at Australian Open

MELBOURNE: Aryna Sabalenka emphasized that the early exits of big names at the Australian Open would not make her title defense any easier, despite one of her key rivals, Zheng Qinwen, suffering a shock defeat in the second round.

Sabalenka, the reigning champion and top seed, secured a hard-fought 6-3, 7-5 victory over Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro on Wednesday. Shortly after, fifth seed Zheng, who had reached last year’s final, was eliminated by world number 97 Laura Siegemund, 7-6(3), 6-3.

Zheng’s departure might appear to simplify Sabalenka’s path, but the Belarusian dismissed the notion, stressing the challenges posed by a competitive field.

“Listen, it’s a slam, you know? Not everyone can handle these emotions,” Sabalenka told reporters. “There are so many players who are playing really well in these conditions. It’s not like if they’re gone, it’s easy for me. No, it’s not.”

The three-time Grand Slam winner remains focused as she continues her campaign, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the tournament and the mental resilience required to triumph.(Reuters)