Australian Open 2024: Aryna Sabalenka blasts past Ella Seidel to begin title defence in style
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Updated 14/01/2024 at 14:43 GMT
Aryna Sabalenka wasted little time dispatching Ella Seidel in the first round of the 2024 Australian Open. In less than an hour, the defending champion threatened to pull off the match bagel before completing a 6-0 6-1 win to book her spot in round two, where she will play Brenda Fruhvirtova. Stream the 2024 Australian Open, live on discovery+, the Eurosport app and at eurosport.com.
'Real skill!' - Sabalenka seals win with 'fabulous half volley'
Aryna Sabalenka needed just 53 minutes to complete a 6-0 6-1 victory over Ella Seidel in the first round of the 2024 Australian Open.
Sabalenka had to wait for Novak Djokovic's thrilling four-hour encounter with Dino Prizmic to end before she could begin the defence of her title on the Rod Laver Arena court and wasted little time in overcoming the qualifier.
The 25-year-old had two chances to complete the match bagel and will play Brenda Fruhvirtova in the next round.
“I’m super happy to be back in Melbourne, last time I had incredible memories,” Sabalenka said. “It feels so great to be back, and all the support, all the atmosphere, I know you were cheering for her but thanks for staying so late and supporting us, it is really important so thank you.”
Sabalenka flew out the gates and lost just 10 points in taking the opener in little more than 20 minutes.
She continued her dominance in the next, racing into a 5-0 lead as the occasion proved too much for her opponent.
She had two chances at 15-40 on Seidel’s serve to win 6-0 6-0 but the German got on the board and saved a further four match points in the next game before Sabalenka finally got over the line.
Last year was a landmark campaign for the Belarusian as she landed her maiden Grand Slam and ascended to the top of the world rankings, and she vowed there is “more to come” in 2024.
“I still need to work hard for my dreams,” she added. “It’s really amazing that I was able to achieve so many goals in tennis and there are many more to come, I’m working really hard to achieve my goals.
“I’m just really grateful for everything I achieve in life and every opportunity I have to play on this incredible court in front of you guys.
“I missed you so much and hopefully I can stay here until the very final day.”
Eurosport expert Tim Henman was impressed with the defending champion’s performance and the ruthless nature in which she made it impossible for her inexperienced opponent to settle on the big stage.
“There was a massive gulf in class wasn’t there,” Henman said. “Seidel had done well to come through qualifying but I think Sabalenka did a really good job of not letting her settle out on a big stage.
“I’m sure her matches will get harder but in terms of going out there and getting her 2024 campaign underway, Sabalenka will be very, very happy with that.”
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