It was business as usual for the World No.1, as Ashleigh Barty made quick work of her opponent in the opening match of Day 5 at the 2020 Australian Open.
The hometown favorite required just an hour and 18 minutes to dispose of Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina, 6-3 6-2.
Rod Laver Arena was packed to capacity as the home crowd cheered and supported their local hero.
Brandishing a game tailored to disrupt any opponent's rhythm, Barty employed big serves with powerful groundstrokes and heavy slices. The 26th-ranked Rybakina was completely overwhelmed in the first set, as Barty took that in just over 30 minutes.
Rybakina attempted a comeback in the second set, but was unable to capitalize on her numerous break point opportunities. Trailing 1-3, a second break of serve sealed her fate as the defending Roland Garros champion ran away with the victory.
Being a clear favorite to lift the title, Barty has been impressive the entire tournament. Coming off a victory in Adelaide a week ago, the Australian has been in superb form and looks to continue her unbeaten streak.
Barty next faces the winner between doubles partner Julia Goerges and American Alison Riske.
[embed]https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220527920193499136[/embed]
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mandoist03-11-2024 - Players need to STOP TRYING TO JUSTIFY THEIR INCLUSION! They are not ambassadors for women in Saudi Arabia, they are not politicians, and they will never make a difference for females in that 'culture'. This little tennis "tournament" changes nothing. Players were lured by the money, opted to participate, and should just keep their predictable excuses and Women's Freedom Fairy Tales to themselves. Period. Like most things in Life -- one cannot make an argument against the Saudi Regime and, at the same time, triple your bank account with their "gifts".mandoist03-11-2024
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