Aryna Sabalenka launched her WTA Finals campaign on a high note, dispatching Italy’s Jasmine Paolini 6-3, 6-1 in Riyadh on Sunday. Behind a blistering serve and her trademark aggression from the baseline, the top seed set the tone early and never allowed the world No. 8 to settle.

Paolini managed to break back once in the opening set, but Sabalenka quickly responded and maintained control throughout. The Belarusian finished with 11 aces and repeatedly held firm during tight service games, showcasing poise in key moments.

Sabalenka leans on power and focus

Despite the seemingly routine scoreline, Sabalenka was pushed to deuce multiple times, particularly in the opening set. Her ability to stay locked in and weather Paolini’s pressure proved decisive as she extended her dominant streak in their matchup.

“We’ve played a lot, and every time it’s a tough battle,” Sabalenka said. “It doesn’t matter what the score is. I always have to stay focused because if you give her a chance, she takes control. I’m most happy with my focus today.”

Gauff falls as Sabalenka stays sharp in title quest

Sabalenka is still chasing her first WTA Finals crown and is treating the prestigious year-end event like a five-match gauntlet. The world No. 2 is now off to the ideal start in her fifth consecutive Finals appearance.

“I know there’s a round robin, but I’m taking this like a regular tournament,” she said. “If I want this trophy, I need five wins.”

Meanwhile, defending champion Coco Gauff stumbled in her opening match, committing 17 double faults in a three-set loss to fellow American Jessica Pegula, 6-3, 6-7 (4), 6-2.