"Listen it's a Slam you know?": Aryna Sabalenka not entirely shocked by Zheng Qinwen's sudden demise at Australian Open
WTA
Aryna Sabalenka is not entirely shocked about the sudden demise of Zheng Qinwen who failed to make it to the third round after losing to the tricky German, Laura Siegemund.
The World No.1 sealed her spot after defeating Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-3, 7-5 in just over an hour extending her winning streak in Melbourne to 16 matches.
Sabalenka was majorly tested by the World No.54 but managed to get through it. But her final opponent did not. It opens up the draw slightly for Sabalenka who would've faced her rival in the Quarter-Finals. But it is very much for her, anyone who makes it through to a Grand Slam is dangerous and that chimed in again.
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“I’m super happy to have finished this match in straight sets,” said Sabalenka post match.
“She played incredible tennis, especially in the second set. I’m really happy I was able to turn around that set.”
“Listen, it’s a slam, you know? Not everyone can handle these emotions,” she continued on Zheng's demise.
“As you can see, there are so many players who are playing really well in these conditions. It’s not like if they’re gone, it’s easy for me. No, it’s not.
“I have to go there, I have to compete, I have to fight. Today’s match proved that. Girls can go there and just play without any fear, without anything to lose.
“They can put you in really uncomfortable positions.”
Next up though is a recent title winner albeit one that won it under odd circumstances as Sabalenka faces Clara Tauson in a match that she said she is really looking forward to.
“I know that she’s a very aggressive player, serving well, hitting pretty heavy shots. It’s going to be a great battle. Really looking forward to face her for the first time.” Sabalenka commented.
WOW.
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) January 15, 2025
36yo Laura Siegemund upsets the Olympic champion and 2024 runner up Zheng Qinwen 7-6(3), 6-3 to reach the 3rd round at the #AusOpen.
The world #5 is the first top 10 player to lose in the Women's Draw.
A shock on John Cain Arena! pic.twitter.com/ELkaExOkRj
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