The Brisbane International welcomed its defending champion in commanding style on Tuesday, Jan. 6, as world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka opened her 2026 season with a dominant straight-sets victory in Brisbane, Australia. The Belarusian needed just 48 minutes to dismiss Spain’s Cristina Bucsa in the second round.

Sabalenka, who received a first-round bye, immediately asserted control at the Brisbane International, rolling through the opening set in just over 20 minutes. Her power and precision left Bucsa struggling to find rhythm from the baseline.

The world No. 1 surged to a 5-0 lead in the second set before Bucsa managed her lone service hold of the match. Sabalenka closed the contest moments later, sealing the Brisbane International win with an ace on her first match point.

Sabalenka sets early tone in Brisbane

Playing her first singles match since the WTA Finals in November, Sabalenka showed no signs of rust at the Brisbane International. Her serve and return game combined to keep constant pressure on Bucsa throughout the match.

The two-time Australian Open champion is chasing a third title in Melbourne later this month, and her performance in Brisbane suggested she has carried her late-2025 form into the new season. The Brisbane International continues to serve as a key launchpad for her Australian Open preparations.

Sabalenka’s victory sends her into the third round, where she will face either Jelena Ostapenko or Sorana Cirstea. Both potential matchups promise a stiffer test as the Brisbane International field narrows.

Keys also advances at Brisbane International

Earlier Tuesday, reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys booked her place in the third round at the Brisbane International with a straight-sets win of her own. Keys defeated fellow American McCartney Kessler to stay on course in the tournament.

Keys will next face 21st-ranked Diana Shnaider as she continues her buildup to Melbourne. The Brisbane International remains one of the final proving grounds before the season’s first Grand Slam.