MATCH REPORT | 2024 Australian Open: Dominant Aryna SABALENKA crushes Amanda ANISIMOVA and advance in title defense
WTASunday, 21 January 2024 at 04:39
Aryna
Sabalenka (world No. 2) defeated Amanda Anisimova (No. 442) with a score of
6-3, 6-2, advancing to the quarterfinals of the 2024 Australian Open. The
Belarusian secured her 11th consecutive victory in Melbourne and remains in
contention for the title defense.
Anisimova
returned to the Tour after an 8-month hiatus and showcased excellent form by
reaching the fourth round in only her second tournament back. The American
didn't have an easy draw but surpassed the 13th seed Lidmila Samsonova, then
the Argentine Nadia Podoroska (No. 65), and finally the former world No. 2
Paula Badosa (No. 100).
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On the
other hand, the Belarusian conceded only six games in her three previous
matches. First, she eliminated Ella Seidel (No. 173) with a score of 6-0, 6-1,
then overcame the 16-year-old Brenda Fruhvirtova (No. 107) with a score of 6-2,
6-3. In the third round, she made a statement with a 'Double Bagel' (6-0, 6-0)
against the 28th seed Lesia Tsurenko.
Sabalenka
won her first service game and quickly secured a break in the second
opportunity, taking a 3-0 lead with her serve. The Belarusian had a chance to
get another break, but the American ultimately prevailed to stay alive in the
set.
Sabalenka
regained the advantage with her serve, but with the score at 4-1, raindrops
started to fall in Melbourne, leading to a rain delay for a few minutes to
cover the Margaret Court Arena. Upon returning to the court, neither player
seemed out of rhythm, securing their service games to reach 5-2. Although she
didn't achieve another break, Sabalenka didn't give her opponent any break
opportunities and sealed the set 6-3.
The start
of the second set saw Sabalenka's victory taking shape as she quickly took a
break in the first game and confirmed the lead with her serve to go up 2-0.
Anisimova managed to maintain the set's equality for a few games, failing to
secure a break but at least holding her serve.
The 2023
Australian Open champion secured the second break of the set in the seventh
game, extending her lead, and closed the match comfortably with a 6-3, 6-2
score. In the
quarterfinals, Sabalenka awaits the winner of the match between the 9th seed
Barbora Krejcikova (No. 11) and the young Russian Mirra Andreeva (No. 47).
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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