Aryna Sabalenka enters the 2024 Australian Open with the goal of joining an elite group of players who have won three consecutive titles at Melbourne Park. The world No. 1 is the favorite for the tournament, having had an impressive season start, which included her 18th career WTA title in Brisbane.
Another victory would not only mark her fourth Grand Slam title but would also widen her lead in the rankings over Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff. Sabalenka has consistently performed at a high level, reaching the semifinals in nine of her last 12 Grand Slam appearances, including her win at the US Open. This form has drawn comparisons to Serena Williams' dominance in the 2010s.
While Sabalenka’s confidence is high, she remains focused on continuous improvement and maintaining her momentum. She has expressed a determined mindset heading into the Australian Open, knowing that she has the potential to lift the trophy again.
However, her focus remains on taking it one step at a time. She aims to become the first woman to win three consecutive Australian Open titles since Martina Hingis achieved the feat in the late 1990s.
Iga Swiatek, who was replaced by Sabalenka as world No. 1 at the end of 2023, has plenty of motivation as she heads into the Australian Open. Although the clay courts of Paris remain her best opportunity to add to her major titles, Swiatek has shown strong form in Australia.
Her performance in the United Cup, where she helped lead Poland to the final, demonstrated her readiness for the upcoming challenge. Swiatek, who served a suspension for a doping violation last year, is determined to reclaim her top spot and build on the momentum from her recent successes.
Coco Gauff, who won her first Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open, is also considered a strong contender. After an impressive finish to the previous season, including victories over Sabalenka and Swiatek at the WTA Finals, Gauff's hardcourt credentials are unquestionable.
The depth of the women’s game is further exemplified by the rise of players like Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina, who reached the 2023 Australian Open final, and four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, who is aiming for a strong comeback after an injury. With many exciting prospects, the women’s draw promises to be competitive, with Sabalenka and other rising stars vying for the top spot.
ADD A COMMENT :