Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the fourth round after a grueling, two-tiebreak victory over Anastasia Potapova on Tuesday.The world number two needed over two hours to overcome the resilient Potapova, who herself was coming off a stunning upset win over Emma Raducanu. The match tested Sabalenka’s resolve early in the tournament as she looks to build upon her two Grand Slam titles, including the 2023 Australian Open.
Aryna Sabalenka battled through a thrilling, topsy-turvy match against Anastasia Potapova to reach the fourth round of the tournament, prevailing 7-6(4), 7-6(7). The hard-fought victory keeps Sabalenka’s impressive run going as she aims for another deep finish in the competition.
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Potapova, currently ranked 55th in the world, had recently found form with a stunning upset over Emma Raducanu in the previous round, creating a potential roadblock for the world number one. The Austrian representative, formerly competing for Russia, looked to continue her momentum against the two-time Australian Open champion.
Sabalenka Faces Early Test
Despite her top billing, Sabalenka encountered immediate resistance from Potapova. After falling behind early, Potapova quickly found her rhythm and battled back to level the set, refusing to concede ground to the tournament favorite. Sabalenka pressed the attack, but Potapova proved a resilient opponent.
The opening set remained fiercely contested, ultimately heading to a tiebreak. Sabalenka initially surged ahead 3-0, but Potapova responded, erasing the deficit and keeping the set alive.
The tiebreak was a back-and-forth affair, marked by numerous mini-breaks – eight of the eleven points were won on return. Sabalenka ultimately edged out Potapova 7-6(4) to claim the first set.
The question then became whether losing such a tight set would impact Potapova’s resolve. Sabalenka, meanwhile, had to shake off some uncharacteristic errors at the net.
Concerns about Potapova’s mental fortitude appeared justified early in the second set. Sabalenka raced to a 4-0 lead, seemingly taking control of the match.
Potapova Stages Remarkable Comeback
But Potapova suddenly shifted gears, playing with newfound freedom and confidence. She reeled off four consecutive games, leveling the set at 4-4 and stunning Sabalenka, who was visibly frustrated after misjudging a shot. The momentum had dramatically swung.
Just when it seemed Potapova had seized control, Sabalenka broke again, earning a chance to serve for the match. However, Potapova refused to yield, forcing another tiebreak.
In the decisive tiebreak, Potapova started strong, winning four of the first six points and earning three set points. Sabalenka responded with clutch play, fighting off all three and eventually creating a match point of her own, which she converted to secure the victory.
Sabalenka will now face Victoria Mboko, the 17th seed and a rising star in Canadian tennis, in the fourth round. The matchup promises to be a compelling contest as Sabalenka continues her pursuit of the title.
Aryna Sabalenka — Anastasia Potapova 7:6(4), 7:6(7)
