Sabalenka makes hot start to season in Brisbane

World No 2 Aryna Sabalenka has made a fast start to the Australian swing in 2024, defeating, Italian Lucia Bronzetti 6-3, 6-0 to reach the last 16 of the Brisbane International on Wednesday night.

This time last year, Sabalenka claimed her maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne. Now, with the defence of this crown looming in 10 days’ time, it seems as though the 25-year-old has brought her best tennis down under once again.

The top seed lost just three games across the straight sets victory, firing down eight aces and breaking her opponent on four occasions.

Sabalenka made it clear just how special a place Australia holds in her heart when addressing the crowd after her victory:

“I have goosebumps thinking about the Australian Open Final. I’m super happy to be back. I have a lot of good memories. I want to do my best to replicate the result this year,” she said.

“Guys, if I would have your support at the US Open, I probably would win that one. Can you come at the US Open next year?”

Next up Sabalenka will play the winner of the match between American Danielle Collins and Chinese Lin Zhu, the No 15 seed. In the previous round, Bronzetti, ranked No 52, beat American Ashlyn Krueger (6-4, 7-5).

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