Melbourne Women’s Semifinals: Sabalenka and Rybakina Dominate
The 2024 Australian Open is heating up as Aryna Sabalenka and Jelena Rybakina remain the players to watch in the semifinals. Both athletes have showcased exceptional skills, setting the stage for a thrilling final showdown.
Melbourne Women’s Semifinals: Sabalenka Dominates
Aryna Sabalenka, the current WTA World No. 1, faced off against Jelina Switolina (WTA 12) in the semifinals. Sabalenka delivered a powerful performance, defeating Switolina decisively with a score of 6-2, 6-3. The match lasted just 76 minutes, highlighting Sabalenka’s dominance on the court.
Throughout the contest, Sabalenka faced little resistance. Despite a brief moment of vulnerability at the start of the second set, where she lost her serve, she quickly regained control. Her ability to break Switolina’s serve at key moments solidified her victory.
Sabalenka’s Impressive Record in Melbourne
- This marks Sabalenka’s fourth consecutive appearance in the Australian Open finals.
- Out of her last 27 matches in Melbourne, she has secured 26 victories.
- Madison Keys remains the only player to defeat her in the finals here, achieving this feat in 2025.
Rybakina’s Path to the Final
Jelena Rybakina (WTA 5) also booked her spot in the final by defeating Jessica Pegula (WTA 6). The match concluded with a score of 6-3, 7-6 (9-7). Rybakina’s win came after a challenging second set that required a tiebreak, where Pegula had opportunities but couldn’t convert her set points.
Rybakina, like Sabalenka, has remained unbeaten in sets throughout the tournament, indicating her strong performance as well.
Final Showdown Ahead
The upcoming final on Saturday presents an exciting rematch between Sabalenka and Rybakina. This clash is particularly significant as it revisits their 2023 Australian Open final. Rybakina is eager for revenge after losing to Sabalenka in that encounter.
Should Rybakina secure victory, it would mark her second Grand Slam title, following her triumph at Wimbledon in 2022. As both players head towards this highly anticipated match, fans can expect a display of exceptional tennis skills and fierce competition.
