Australian Open—Melbourne, Australia
Thursday’s action at the Australian Open featured Aryna Sabalenka reaching the first Major final of her career, defeating surprise semifinalist Magda Linette 7-6(1), 6-2.
In a match that lasted one hour and 33 minutes, Sabalenka hit six aces, won 70 percent of her first serve points and broke serve on three occasions.
Looking to win her first-ever Grand Slam title on Saturday, Sabalenka will have to overcome a stiff challenge from reigning Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina.
Rybakina used her explosive game to dismiss two-time former winner Victoria Azarenka 7-6(4), 6-3.
Sabalenka owns a 3-0 head-to-head lead over Rybakina in career meetings, with their last encounter taking place at Wimbledon in 2021.
Elsewhere, Friday’s action in Melbourne will be highlighted by the men’s semifinals. Nine-time former champion Novak Djokovic will take on first-time Major semifinalist Tommy Paul in the night sessions, with No. 3 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas facing No. 18 seed Karen Khachanov during the day session.
Semifinal Results:
(5) Aryna Sabalenka Defeats Magda Linette 76(1) 62
(22) Elena Rybakina Defeats (24) Victoria Azarenka 7-6(4) 63
