World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka overcame serving struggles to defeat Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-3, 7-5 on Wednesday, advancing to the Australian Open third round.
Despite dropping serve three times and facing 11 break points, Sabalenka rallied to win the last five games and secure her 16th consecutive victory on Rod Laver Arena.
The defending champion faced stiff resistance, with Bouzas Maneiro serving for the second set at 5-3. However, Sabalenka clawed back, breaking twice to close out the match in straight sets.
“She played incredible tennis, and it was a tough one,” Sabalenka said. “I’m really happy I managed to win in straight sets against someone who makes you fight for every point.”
The Belarusian now faces Denmark’s Clara Tauson as she aims for a rare third consecutive Australian Open title, a feat last achieved in 1997 by Martina Hingis. Sabalenka acknowledged the pressure of being the top seed but emphasized the need to stay competitive.
“You have to fight and show your best,” she said. “Today’s match proved that anyone can put you in tough positions.”
