Sabalenka Triumphs in Wuhan on First Match Since US Open Victory

Aryna Sabalenka’s return to competitive tennis after her US Open triumph could have started more smoothly, but the world number one demonstrated why she is considered one of the sport’s most formidable players. In her first match since securing her first Grand Slam title of the year in New York, Sabalenka overcame a rocky start to defeat Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 at the Wuhan Open.

Sabalenka, who clinched the US Open title by defeating Amanda Anisimova in the final, admitted that shaking off the post-Grand Slam break was not straightforward. She struggled with consistency in the early stages of her match, making uncharacteristic errors and finding it difficult to counter Sramkova’s aggressive baseline play and powerful serves. The Slovak, ranked 68th in the world, capitalized on this by taking the first set 6-4.

“I have to say she played incredible tennis, especially in the first set and there was not much I could do,” Sabalenka reflected after the match.

Despite the initial setback, Sabalenka found her rhythm in the second set. Showing her characteristic resilience and tactical adaptability, she struck first, fended off multiple break points, and surged to a 5-2 lead to force a decisive third set. Once momentum swung in her favor, the four-time major champion dominated, breaking Sramkova twice in the final set and saving four additional break points before sealing the victory with a final break.

Sabalenka’s Wuhan Legacy

Wuhan has proven to be a special venue for Sabalenka throughout her career. The Belarusian is a three-time defending champion at the event, having won in 2018, 2019, and most recently in 2024 following the tournament’s three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her affinity for the city has earned her playful nicknames among fans and fellow players.

“First I was ‘Daughter of China,’ then ‘Queen of Fried Rice,’” Sabalenka joked, referencing her love for the dish. “Then I talked to [China's world number 10] Zheng Qinwen and they actually call me ‘Tiger.’ So many nicknames. I won so many tournaments here and it feels like home, I hope I can go all the way.”

Her performance in Wuhan is not just about defending titles but also about asserting dominance during the Asian swing of the WTA Tour. A strong showing here could set the tone for the closing months of the season as she maintains her world number one ranking.

Upcoming Matches

Sabalenka will face Russia’s Liudmila Samsonova in the next round, who defeated former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin 3-6, 6-3, 6-1. Both players have shown resilience and the ability to turn matches around after dropping sets, suggesting a highly competitive clash.

Other notable results from the tournament include Coco Gauff breezing into the third round with a commanding 51-minute win over Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima, who managed only five points on Gauff’s serve. Meanwhile, sixth seed Jessica Pegula narrowly avoided an upset, overcoming Hailey Baptiste 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (8-6) in an exhausting two-hour-and-55-minute encounter. Pegula’s next match will be against Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova, while Gauff is set to face Shuai Zhang, ranked 142 in the world.

Japan’s Naomi Osaka, a four-time major winner, was another surprise exit. She lost 7-6 (7-2), 6-3 to Czech player Linda Noskova, who is enjoying a strong run of form following her recent China Open final appearance. Additionally, the extreme heat and humidity in Wuhan proved challenging for some players; Czech 12th seed Karolina Muchova retired while trailing 7-6 (7-1), 4-1 against Poland’s Magdalena Frech.

Sabalenka’s Strength and Mental Fortitude

What stood out in Sabalenka’s comeback victory was her mental toughness and ability to adapt under pressure. While Sramkova’s aggressive style initially unsettled her, Sabalenka’s strategic adjustments—improving her serve, stepping into the court, and varying shot selection—ultimately overwhelmed her opponent. These qualities underscore why she is ranked number one and continue to make her a formidable presence on any surface.

“I knew it would be not easy after the break [following the US Open] to get into my rhythm but I am glad in the second set I found my game,” she said. “I stepped in and I played really great.”

The victory is also significant because it helps Sabalenka maintain confidence and momentum after a high-pressure Grand Slam victory. Winning on tour immediately after a major championship can be psychologically challenging, as expectations, fatigue, and media attention increase exponentially. Sabalenka’s ability to navigate these factors demonstrates both her technical skill and mental resilience.

Looking Ahead

As the Wuhan Open progresses, fans can expect high-stakes matches across the draw. With players like Sabalenka, Gauff, and Pegula all in strong form, the tournament promises to deliver exciting encounters and potential upsets. Sabalenka’s next matches, in particular, will test her ability to sustain peak performance, manage her schedule, and continue asserting her dominance on the WTA Tour.

Her victory over Sramkova is a reminder that even top-ranked players face challenges after a Grand Slam, but with determination and adaptability, they can rise above. For Sabalenka, the road ahead in Wuhan is an opportunity to extend her legacy and continue her remarkable 2025 season.

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