Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina faced off in the final of the Australian Open in Melbourne on Saturday.
Fifth-seeded Belarusian Sabalenka had won all 10 games she played this season to reach the final.
Rybakina, 23, moved coolly through the draw, unfazed by the snub of their opening match, which was moved to the wilds of Melbourne Park’s Court 13.
The Russian-born player, who now represents Kazakhstan, produced three Grand Slam winners, including world number one Iga Swiatek, on her way to the final.
Rybakina sent 45 aces by reaching the decider at Melbourne Park, easily more than anyone in the women’s draw.
The final at Melbourne Park was attended by some famous names including actor Russell Crowe, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, former cricket captain Steve Waugh and others.
Updated January 28, 2023 at 9:40 am
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