World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the last 16 of the Australian Open after defeating Anastasia Potapova in two tiebreak sets on Friday, January 23. Sabalenka battled in warm conditions at Rod Laver Arena before prevailing 7-6 (4), 7-6 (7) in just over two hours. The victory extended her streak of reaching the second week in Melbourne to six consecutive years.

The four-time Grand Slam champion raced to a 2-0 lead but faced a series of unforced errors that allowed 55th-ranked Potapova to force a tiebreak. Sabalenka clinched the first set with a backhand winner down the line and held her nerve to secure the second set in another tiebreak, demonstrating resilience under pressure.

Sabalenka fends off Potapova in thriller

Potapova looked set to cause an upset, capitalizing on Sabalenka’s sluggish stretches and squandering four set points along the way. The 27-year-old Sabalenka, however, regained momentum, storming to a 4-0 lead in the second set and leaving Potapova’s hopes of reaching a Grand Slam last 16 for only the second time in her career in ruins.

Throughout the match, Sabalenka remained composed, fighting for every point and praising her opponent’s play while expressing satisfaction with the victory. Her resilience kept her on track in Melbourne as she looks to defend her status at the Australian Open.

Next challenge in the fourth round

Sabalenka will face 19-year-old Canadian Victoria Mboko in the fourth round. Mboko advanced after defeating 14th seed Clara Tauson of Denmark 7-6 (5), 5-7, 6-3, reaching the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time.

The upcoming match presents a fresh test for Sabalenka as the tournament moves deeper into the final rounds. The world No. 1 will aim to maintain momentum and continue her quest for another Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park.