Aryna Sabalenka has downplayed the impact of early exits by major players at the Australian Open, saying it won’t make her title defense easier. This comes after top seed Sabalenka witnessed one of her biggest rivals, Zheng Qinwen, fall to world number 97 Laura Siegemund in the second round.
Sabalenka defeated Spaniard Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-3, 7-5 on Wednesday. Shortly after, Zheng, who lost to Sabalenka in last year’s final, was eliminated with a 7-6(3), 6-3 loss.
While Zheng’s departure reduces the competition, Sabalenka emphasized that the tournament remains challenging.
“It’s a slam, you know? Not everyone can handle these emotions,” Sabalenka said. “As you can see, many players are performing well under these conditions. Just because they’re gone doesn’t mean it’s easier for me. I still have to compete and fight.”
Sabalenka experienced pressure in her own match, trailing 5-2 in the second set against Bouzas Maneiro, who had stunned Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova last year.
“I definitely didn’t want a third set. But I didn’t want to let go of the set,” Sabalenka said. “I told myself, ‘OK, let’s go play a third,’ and mentally prepared myself to focus on my serve.”
Sabalenka noted that she felt her opponent’s nerves at 5-3, which allowed her to capitalize and finish the match in two sets. She also added that she wanted to avoid physical exhaustion early in the tournament.
Next, Sabalenka will face Clara Tauson of Denmark, who won the Auckland title before the Australian Open after Naomi Osaka withdrew due to injury.
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