Storm Sanders confident ahead of first round battle with Sabalenka - "I'm more prepared than ever"

Australian hopeful Storm Sanders will be facing one of the biggest challenges in her career on Tuesday at the Australian Open, as she battles World No.2 Aryna Sabalenka for a spot in the second round.

Sabalenka has had a disastrous lead into the first Grand Slam of the year, losing in the first round of two warm-up events in Adelaide this month. Furthermore, the Belarusian has had difficulty with her serve, recording an astounding 39 double faults in both matches. Nonetheless, the second seed is still a dangerous opponent and could rediscover her form at any given moment.

Sanders, who received a wildcard to Melbourne Park, is well aware of her opponent's ability but has instead chosen to focus on enjoying the moment.

I feel like I'm more prepared than ever," Sanders told ESPN last week. "I think when the last time I played, I hadn't had that many experiences playing at a high level -- singles or doubles -- and I think I was more nervous back then than I am now.

"Whereas now I feel like in 2021 I had a lot of matches against some really good opponents. I beat [world No. 21] Elise Mertens at the [Billie Jean King Cup in November 2021]. I feel like I'm really fit. I'm the fittest I've ever been. And I'm confident I really kind of believe in myself. So yeah, I think I'm more prepared than ever."

The 27-year old will be looking to build off her momentum, as she won the doubles title at Adelaide with compatriot Ashleigh Barty.