Brisbane International: Aryna Sabalenka Powers into Final with Victory Over Mirra Andreeva
WTA News
Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1, powered into the Brisbane International final with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over 17-year-old Russian opponent Mirra Andreeva. This win marks a step closer to her first trophy of the year, before her Australian Open title defense begins later this month.
Sabalenka saved five breakpoints in the first set against her 17-year-old Russian opponent, who had stunned the then-ailing Belarusian in the French Open quarterfinals seven months ago. Fit and firing on all cylinders in her opening tournament of the new season, Sabalenka shifted gears in the second set for an early break and eased through to book a meeting with Russian Polina Kudermetova in tomorrow’s final.
"It’s always the same tactic for me, to stay aggressive and put my opponents under pressure," said Sabalenka, runner-up at the tournament last year. "I was glad I was able to do that against Mirra. It seemed like everything was working really well. She’s an amazing player and I’m pretty sure she’s going to be in the top 10 very soon. I’m happy to get this win."
Men’s Event
In the men’s event, Grigor Dimitrov’s title defense ended when the Bulgarian retired with injury while trailing 6-4, 4-4 against Czech Jiri Lehecka on Pat Rafter Arena. Reilly Opelka, who earlier stunned Novak Djokovic, followed up with a 6-3, 7-6(4) victory over Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a battle of big servers.
Australian Open Preparations
Naomi Osaka, who returned to the WTA Tour 12 months ago after a lengthy maternity break, is targeting her first trophy since her Melbourne Park triumph four years ago. She defeated Alycia Parks 6-4, 6-2 to reach the Auckland Classic final, where she will take on Denmark’s Clara Tauson tomorrow. "It’s definitely really important," Osaka said. "I’m happy to get through to the final. I’ve actually never gotten to the final of the tournament the week before Melbourne. This is a first for me."
Conclusion
The Brisbane International has seen some thrilling matches, with top players vying for the title. Aryna Sabalenka’s victory over Mirra Andreeva was a highlight of the tournament, and she will look to carry her momentum into the final against Polina Kudermetova. In the men’s event, Reilly Opelka’s victory over Novak Djokovic was a stunning upset, and he will look to build on that momentum in the final.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who won the women’s singles title at the Brisbane International?
A: Aryna Sabalenka won the title with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Mirra Andreeva.
Q: Who will Aryna Sabalenka face in the final?
A: Aryna Sabalenka will face Polina Kudermetova in the final.
Q: Who won the men’s singles title at the Brisbane International?
A: The men’s title was not decided, as Grigor Dimitrov retired with injury in his semifinal match.
Q: Who will face Naomi Osaka in the Auckland Classic final?
A: Naomi Osaka will face Clara Tauson in the Auckland Classic final.