Dominant Win Over Cirstea
World number one Aryna Sabalenka showcased her form with a second commanding win at the Brisbane International, defeating 36-year-old Sorana Cirstea 6-3, 6-3 in 70 minutes. Despite moments of resistance from the Romanian, Sabalenka remained in control throughout the match.
She will next face either Diana Shnaider, the 21-year-old Russian, or Madison Keys, the American who beat Sabalenka in last year’s Australian Open final.
Focused on Improvement Ahead of Melbourne
After her win, Sabalenka emphasised that there is always room for improvement as she prepares to chase a third Australian Open title in four years.
“I think there is always room to improve, and I’m definitely not at my peak,” Sabalenka said. “Of course I prefer to win every match 6-0, 6-0, like everyone probably prefers, but at the end of the day, you only get better when someone pushes you and you have to deal with moments under pressure.”
Brisbane Draw Offers Top-Level Preparation
Sabalenka praised the high-quality competition in Brisbane, which features seven of the top 10 women in the world, as ideal preparation for a Grand Slam.
“I think by bringing and having seven top players in the draw, it definitely helps to prepare better for the Australian Open,” she said. “It’s important to have quality matches before heading to the big event, just so you’re preparing yourself mentally for fights, for battles. And playing against top players is definitely a huge help heading into the Grand Slam tournament.”
Rybakina Also Advances
Former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina also progressed to the quarter-finals with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Spain’s Paula Badosa. The world number five dominated from 3-3 in the first set, winning nine of the next 11 games.
“It’s always a tough battle against Paula, she has great shots, plays really fast, and has a great serve,” Rybakina said. “I have a lot of things to work on for my next match but hopefully it’s going to be better.
