Australian Open 2025: Aryna Sabalenka Eyes History with Third Straight Title

Sabalenka Marches into Final, Keeps Dream Alive
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the Australian Open 2025 final, defeating Spain’s Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2. The victory not only extended Sabalenka’s winning streak at the tournament to 20 matches but also kept her hopes alive of becoming the first woman since Martina Hingis (1997-1999) to win three consecutive Australian Open titles.

“It’s a privilege,” Sabalenka said, reflecting on her potential place in tennis history. “I dreamed of winning one Grand Slam, and now to have this opportunity to make history means the world to me.”

Match Highlights

• Badosa’s Strong Start: The Spanish 11th seed opened aggressively, breaking Sabalenka’s serve early to take a 2-0 lead. She was a point away from going up 3-0 before Sabalenka shifted gears.
• Sabalenka’s Response: The Belarusian fought back, winning four consecutive games to take control of the first set, which she sealed 6-4.
• Second Set Dominance: Sabalenka capitalized on Badosa’s errors, including multiple double faults, to break serve twice and cruise through the second set, winning 6-2.
• Duration: The match lasted just 1 hour and 26 minutes, with Sabalenka hitting an impressive 32 winners to Badosa’s 16.

Friendship Off the Court, Fierce Rivalry On It

Despite being close friends and describing Badosa as her “soulmate,” Sabalenka showed no mercy on the court. The match was fiercely contested, with little interaction between the players during play. However, a rare moment of camaraderie was evident when Badosa slipped early in the second set, and Sabalenka gave her a reassuring thumbs-up.

After the match, Sabalenka was seen consoling a tearful Badosa in the players’ area. Speaking about their friendship, Sabalenka said:
“It was a super tough match against a friend. I’m super happy to see her performing at her highest level. We’ve decided to put our friendship aside during matches, but it’s always hard.”

Final Showdown Awaits

Sabalenka will face either Iga Swiatek or Madison Keys in the final.

• If Swiatek wins her semifinal, the Australian Open final will feature the top two seeds for the first time since 2018.
• The championship match will also determine the world No. 1 ranking, with Swiatek having the chance to dethrone Sabalenka.

Key Facts About Sabalenka’s Campaign

• Defending Champion: Sabalenka is the two-time defending champion, having won the Australian Open titles in 2023 and 2024.
• Historical Pursuit: If Sabalenka wins the title, she will join an elite club of players with three consecutive Australian Open titles, a feat last achieved by Martina Hingis.
• Unstoppable Streak: With her victory over Badosa, Sabalenka has now won 20 consecutive matches at the Australian Open.

What’s Next for Paula Badosa?

Despite the loss, Badosa’s journey to her first Grand Slam semifinal has been remarkable. She upset third seed Coco Gauff in the quarterfinals and has shown she can compete at the highest level. With her confidence bolstered, Badosa will be one to watch in future tournaments.

What to Watch in the Final

The highly anticipated final on Saturday, January 25, 2025, promises to be a thrilling clash. Will Sabalenka make history, or will her opponent rise to the occasion? Stay tuned for live updates and expert analysis as the drama unfolds at Melbourne Park.