![Sabalenka powers through her Brisbane International opener in under an hour. [photo credit: Aryna Sabalenka Instagram]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot_502-400x200.png)
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka launched her 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion at the Brisbane International, overwhelming Spain’s Cristina Bucsa in her opening match as she builds momentum toward the Australian Open.
![Elena Rybakina celebrates victory over Aryna Sabalenka at WTA Finals. [photo credit: WTA]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/577029813_1394175492072684_1087140283367812058_n-400x200.jpg)
Elena Rybakina defeated World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6–3, 7–6 (0) to win the WTA Finals in Riyadh, becoming the first player from Kazakhstan to claim the title.
![Sabalenka vs. Rybakina for the WTA Finals crown — power showdown incoming. [photo credit: WTA Facebook]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/578709199_1393352112155022_3572360136112025300_n-400x200.jpg)
Aryna Sabalenka battled past Amanda Anisimova in three sets to return to the WTA Finals championship match, where she will face first-time finalist Elena Rybakina in Riyadh.
The 124th French Open saw Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff capture thrilling titles in Paris, marking a new chapter in Grand Slam history on clay.