Title: Aryna Sabalenka: Comeback Queen Defies Odds to Topple Sofia Kenin in Rome
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Discover how World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka overcame a slow start to defeat Sofia Kenin in a thrilling three-set triumph at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia.
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In a thrilling display of resilience, Aryna Sabalenka, the tournament’s top seed, staged a comeback against Sofia Kenin to win 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the third round of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. The mettle shown by Sabalenka, the winner of her past 21 out of 23 matches, further cemented her status as the favorite to capture the Rome title after Iga Swiatek‘s early exit.
Sabalenka’s Stellar Run Continues
Sabalenka, who has yet to win in Rome or at Roland Garros, avenged her 2023 opening-match loss to Kenin with Saturday’s success. The 25-year-old Belarusian has now won four of their five previous encounters.
- Sabalenka has won 21 of her past 23 matches.
- She has a 34-10 record in WTA 1000 clay court events.
- Sabalenka leads the tour with 1,017 winners this year.
I was going really tough on myself. It was a tough match – she played incredible tennis in the first set. It was a great fight and super happy to get this match. – Aryna Sabalenka
The Turning Point: A Marathon Game
The epic second game of the third set proved to be the turning point. Sabalenka faced 10 deuces and seven break-point chances before finally converting, with Kenin sending a forehand long. Although Kenin broke back immediately, Sabalenka broke again in the next game to secure victory.
Sabalenka, who amassed 23 break-point opportunities during the match (her most in a WTA Tour match), will face Marta Kostyuk in Monday’s Round of 16. Kostyuk upset No. 24 seed Leylah Fernandez in her previous match.
Sabalenka’s Form on Clay Courts
Sabalenka’s impressive record on clay, especially in WTA 1000 events, bodes well for her as she seeks her first Roland Garros title. Her experience and form make her a strong contender for the Internazionali BNL d’Italia trophy.
FAQs:
Q: Who has Aryna Sabalenka beaten to reach the Round of 16?
A: Sabalenka defeated Sofia Kenin in the third round.
Q: Who is Sabalenka’s next opponent?
A: The world No. 1 will face Marta Kostyuk in the Round of 16.
Did you know?
- Sabalenka has won 21 of her past 23 matches, including titles in Miami and Madrid.
Pro Tip:
- Keep an eye on Sabalenka’sserve and return game. Her aggressive style often dictates the pace of her matches.
**Stay tuned to 247Sports for more news and updates on Aryna Sabalenka and the Internazionali BNL d’Italia.
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