Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, showed resilience in her 4-6 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian qualifier Polina Kudermetova to clinch the Brisbane International title on Sunday. The world No. 1 from Belarus initially struggled in the first set, dropping her serve twice and losing 6-4 to Kudermetova, who showed strong baseline play.
However, Sabalenka regrouped in the second set, winning it 6-3 after a crucial break, which seemed to ignite her game.
In the decider, Sabalenka's dominance resurfaced as she broke early with a precise crosscourt forehand winner and continued to impose her aggressive style on Kudermetova.
Despite a late fight from the Russian qualifier, Sabalenka managed to fend off her opponent’s comeback attempts and closed out the match to secure her first title of the season. Fans at the packed Pat Rafter Arena cheered as the 26-year-old showed her class and power in the final set.
The victory in Brisbane sets Sabalenka up for her defense at the Australian Open, starting January 12. Meanwhile, in the men’s draw, American Reilly Opelka was set to face Czech Jiri Lehecka in the final later that day.
ADD A COMMENT :