Aryna Sabalenka defeated Elise Mertens in the last group stage match at the WTA Elite Trophy in Zhuhai to advance into the quaterfinals.
Mertens and Sabalenka are the first-seeded couple in doubles at the WTA Finals in Shangha. However, in Zhuhai they met already in the group stage and that was one of the main points Sabalenka spoke about after the match.
"It was a really great match today, [Mertens] played really great, and it was a really great level, and I think I was a little bit more lucky in the last few games," Sabalenka said, during her post-match press conference.
"And I really am happy to be on the same side next week, it's going to be good, I think, and I just can't wait to play with her against some girls," the Belarusian laughed.
"I just said before the tournament that there was a little bit disappointment that we were in the same group, I would like to play final against her, it would be a really nice battle," Sabalenka admitted. "But even today was a great fight, great battle and I was enjoying every second on the court."
In the semifinal match, Sabalenka will be facing Muchova to fight for the spot in the final against Bertens or Zheng.
"I just watched a couple of points from today's match and I would like to say that [Muchova is] a great player and it's going to be a tough match, and I'm just looking forward to what's going to happen tomorrow," said Sabalenka. "We never [played] each other and I didn't speak with my coach yet about her, so we'll see. But anyway, she's a great one, she's a great player."
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