Aryna Sabalenka moved one step closer to a third Australian Open title after reaching her fourth consecutive final in Melbourne. The world No.1 secured her place with a straight-sets victory at Rod Laver Arena on January 29.
Sabalenka overcame a hesitant start in both sets before asserting control. Once she found her rhythm, she dominated the contest and sealed a 6-2, 6-3 win without dropping a set. The result keeps her bid alive for a third championship in four years at the Australian Open.
The Belarusian has now joined an exclusive group in women’s tennis. She became only the third player in the modern Grand Slam era to reach four consecutive Australian Open finals, alongside Evonne Goolagong and Martina Hingis.
This year’s tournament has also produced a rare milestone. All four semifinalists advanced without losing a set, marking the first time that has happened in Australia in 56 years.
Melbourne, your first finalist has arrived 🌟 pic.twitter.com/erIXoFS5Ho
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) January 29, 2026Sabalenka entered the semifinal carrying a 10-match winning streak. She had claimed a warm-up title before the Australian Open, which boosted her confidence.
Sabalenka will face the winner of the second semifinal between Jessica Pegula and Elena Rybakina. Both players have also impressed with flawless runs through the tournament.
Despite the achievement, Sabalenka remained focused on the task ahead. She acknowledged that reaching the final is only part of the challenge.
“It’s an incredible achievement, but the job’s not done yet,” she said during her on-court interview.
She praised her opponent, Elina Svitolina, noting the level required to secure the win. Sabalenka said she needed to apply constant pressure and was pleased with her overall performance.
With momentum on her side, Sabalenka now stands one match away from further cementing her dominance in Melbourne.
