Sabalenka eases past Mertens to reach Wimbledon quarter-finals
Aryna Sabalenka beat Elise Mertens 6-4, 7-6 (4) on Sunday evening. She’ll play German Laura Siegemund in the next round
Aryna Sabalenka, Wimbledon, 2025 © SPP / Psnewz
Aryna Sabalenka powered past former doubles partner Elise Mertens 6-4, 7-6 (4) to power into the quarter-finals of Wimbledon and reassert her status as firm favourite for the title.
The world No 1 was in fine form but was made to work hard by the industrious Belgian, who pushed Sabalenka close – particularly in the second set.
Wimbledon is the only Grand Slam that Sabalenka has yet to make the final of, having missed both the 2022 and 2024 editions of the tournament.
On paper, however, her game is well-suited to the grass. A devastating serve and powerful, flat-hitting compliment the quicker courts of SW19 and Sabalenka has therefore earned herself the mantle of the leading contender to lift the Venus Rosewater Dish this year.
Siegemund next for Sabalenka
“I mean it’s tough to play against someone you know quite well,” Sabalenka said in her on-court interview, referencing the fact that she and Mertens used to be regular doubles partners.
“She’s a great player and person. It’s tricky. Especially I know her smart she is. I know she will fight to the very end to find something. She really challenged me. I’m super happy with the win.”
Next up for the Belarusian will be experienced Laura Siegemund in the quarter-finals, after the German became the oldest player to reach a maiden Wimbledon last-eight berth earlier in the day.
