Sabalenka Stays Unbeaten in Wuhan With Comeback Victory Over Sramkova
Exciting Comeback for Aryna Sabalenka at the Wuhan Open
Sabalenka’s Stellar Performance in Wuhan
Aryna Sabalenka, World No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion, made a remarkable return to the court at the Dongfeng Voyah Wuhan Open. In her first match since securing the US Open title, Sabalenka overcame a slow start to defeat Rebecca Sramkova, 4-6, 6-3, 6-1, in a match lasting 1 hour and 58 minutes.
Wuhan: A Special Venue for Sabalenka
Wuhan remains a significant tournament for Sabalenka, as it is where she won her first WTA 1000 title in 2018. Her victory against Sramkova extended her undefeated streak in this venue to 18-0, the longest unbeaten run at a single event since Caroline Wozniacki’s at New Haven.
Sramkova’s Strong Start
Rebecca Sramkova, ranked No. 66, entered the match with her own impressive form. Although this was her Wuhan debut, she previously defeated Anna Kalinskaya in the first round. Sramkova displayed aggressive play from the outset, breaking Sabalenka’s serve early and taking the first set with 15 winners, including five aces.
Turning the Tide: Sabalenka’s Comeback
Despite Sramkova’s excellent start, Sabalenka demonstrated her resilience. After a shaky first set, she found her rhythm in the second set by breaking Sramkova’s serve at a critical juncture. Sabalenka maintained her momentum throughout, increasing her winner count to 24 over the final two sets.
Navigating Crucial Moments
Sabalenka delivered under pressure, saving all nine break points she faced in the latter sets. Her ability to step up in crucial moments played a key role in her comeback, as she showcased clutch performances to secure her win.
Upcoming Challenge Against Liudmila Samsonova
Sabalenka will face Liudmila Samsonova in the third round. Samsonova, who advanced after defeating Sofia Kenin, has a competitive history with Sabalenka. However, Sabalenka holds a 3-2 advantage in their previous matchups, with recent straight-set victories in Cincinnati and Indian Wells.
Reflecting on her victory, Sabalenka stated in an on-court interview, “I have to say she played incredible tennis, especially in the first set. Not much I could do. I knew that after that little break [since the US Open] it would not be easy to get back in my rhythm, but I’m really glad that in the second set I found my game, I stepped in and I think I played really great.”
Stay tuned to Emegypt for more updates on the Wuhan Open as Sabalenka and other contenders strive for victory.
