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Aryna Sabalenka has her chance for Australian Open redemption after equalling Martina Hingis’ feat of reaching a fourth straight women’s singles final at Melbourne Park.
The world No.1 was in no mood for a contest on Thursday night, thrashing Ukrainian Elina Svitolina 6-2, 6-3 – with only a minor lapse to start the second set – in one of her more authoritative matches in Australia, particularly this late in the tournament.
Aryna Sabalenka lets out a thunderous roar during her dominant win.Credit: Eddie Jim
Hingis was the last women’s player to make the Australian Open final on at least four consecutive occasions, featuring in each one from 1997 to 2002, including winning the first three.
“I cannot believe that, honestly – that’s an incredible achievement. But the job is not done yet,” Sabalenka said of making another final.
“I’m super happy with the win. [Svitolina]’s such a tough opponent … she was incredible against Mirra [Andreeva] and Coco [Gauff], and overall throughout the tournament, and I felt like I had to step in and put as much pressure as I could back on her.
“I’m glad that the level was there today. I played great tennis, and I’m happy to get this win in straight sets.”
Sabalenka awaits the winner of the second semi-final between Jessica Pegula and Elena Rybakina, who she beat for the first of her two Australian Open titles in 2023. Pegula lost the 2024 US Open final to Sabalenka.
American Madison Keys spoiled Sabalenka’s bid for a title hat-trick at Melbourne Park last year, outlasting her in a three-set classic, but she has continued to reach the latter stages of grand slams at an extraordinary rate.
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