World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka has navigated a tense encounter to secure her place in the last 16 of the Australian Open on Friday. The top seed displayed visible frustration throughout the gripping match, nearly squandering a commanding 4-0 lead in the second set before ultimately defeating world No.55 Anastasia Potapova 7-6(4) 7-6(7).
Emotional Rollercoaster on Court
Sabalenka appeared poised to dominate the second set, but Potapova mounted a brilliant comeback, holding four set points in the tiebreaker. However, the two-time champion demonstrated resilience, relieved to clinch the victory in straight sets.
Speaking post-match, Sabalenka admitted to struggling with her emotions during the turbulent clash. "I was just trying to calm myself down, which wasn't working well today, but at the same time I was trying to figure out how to connect my body," she revealed.
Technical Struggles and Mental Fortitude
"It seems like everything was working separately. My brain was somewhere else. My arms were going one direction, my body was going the other direction," Sabalenka explained. "And I don't know, I was like looking on that side, thinking, just try to put pressure on her ... And somehow magically I was able to get this win."
During the first set, Sabalenka struggled with unforced errors, frequently shaking her head and gesturing to her support team. Commentator Peter Psaltis noted, "She's looking a little agitated at the moment."
Potapova's Valiant Effort
While Sabalenka grappled with consistency, Potapova held her ground, striking 10 winners to force a tiebreaker. Yet, Sabalenka's class prevailed as she sealed the set with a powerful backhand winner.
With the first set secured, the Belarusian unleashed her game in the second, dropping only one point to lead 3-0. Just as a straightforward win seemed imminent, Potapova rallied with four consecutive games to level at 4-4.
Dramatic Tiebreaker Decider
The pair exchanged breaks before another tiebreaker ensued. Potapova earned three set points at 6-3, but a costly double fault allowed Sabalenka to save all three and an additional point at 6-7, ultimately sealing the match.
Sabalenka praised her opponent's performance, saying, "She played incredible tennis. I was always on the back foot. And to be honest, there are days where you just have to be there, just have to fight and try your best to put the ball back on that side."
"I don't know what was the key, I think even though emotionally I was like all over the place, but I was able to still fight for every point," she added.
Next Challenge Awaits
Sabalenka now advances to face rising Canadian star Victoria Mboko in the fourth round on Sunday. The 19-year-old Mboko secured her spot with a hard-fought victory over Claura Tauson, winning 7-6(5) 5-7 6-3.
