Sabalenka Shines at Australian Open Despite Stiff Opposition

Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the third round of the Australian Open by defeating Bai Zhouxuan. Despite Bai's strong defense, Sabalenka won comfortably, looking to add a fifth Grand Slam title to her achievements. Meanwhile, Elina Svitolina, Zeynep Sönmez, Francisco Cerundolo, and Tommy Paul also progressed.

Top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka secured her spot in the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday after overcoming China's Bai Zhouxuan with a 6-3, 6-1 victory. Sabalenka, who initially surged to a 5-0 lead, faced resistance as Bai displayed commendable defense strategies, including clever drop shots.

Sabalenka expressed satisfaction with her victory against a 'tricky opponent,' noting Bai's resilience in the first set. The Belarusian player dominated the second set, asserting her strength on the court and experimenting with serve-and-volley tactics.

Other notable matches saw Elina Svitolina defeating Linda Klimovicova, Zeynep Sönmez advancing by beating Anna Bondar, Francisco Cerundolo ousting Damir Dzumhur, and Tommy Paul overcoming Thiago Agustin Tirante. Meanwhile, Gael Monfils bid farewell to Melbourne Park in his final competitive season.

(With inputs from agencies.)