Consistency Key To Sabalenka's Success Following Victory Over Navarro
Aryna Sabalenka emphasised her consistency as the key factor after reaching her ninth career Grand Slam quarter-final with a dominant victory over Emma Navarro at the French Open. The world number two secured a comfortable 6-2, 6-3 win over the American, becoming the youngest woman to make seven consecutive Grand Slam quarter-finals since Venus Williams 20 years ago.
The last major where Sabalenka did not reach the last eight was Wimbledon 2022, when Russian and Belarusian players were banned due to the war in Ukraine. The two-time Australian Open champion is aiming to become the first woman to win the season's first two majors since Serena Williams in 2015.
After avenging her loss to Navarro at Indian Wells three months ago, Sabalenka commented on her quarter-final streak: "It sounds crazy to me, to be honest." She added, "I'm super happy that I was able to bring this consistency at the Grand Slams. It's motivating me a lot to keep pushing myself and to see where the limit is."
Sabalenka also noted the favourable weather conditions: "With the sun out, it is definitely more positive. We had a difficult few days last week with the weather, but now the roof is open with beautiful conditions. It was a little windy, but I was myself and tried to do my best."
Reflecting on her match against Navarro, Sabalenka said, "It was a tough battle. I went into it wanting to fight for every point. I expected long rallies. I had to fight to get the win. She is a tough opponent, but I am happy to get through the match."
Sabalenka will face either 17-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva or French favourite Varvara Gracheva in the next round.
| Player | Grand Slam Quarter-Finals | Consecutive Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Aryna Sabalenka | 9 | 11 |
| Serena Williams (2009-10) | - | 11 |
According to OptaAce, Sabalenka is only the second player in the last 20 years to win their opening 11 Women's Singles Grand Slam matches in consecutive seasons, following Serena Williams' achievement in 2009-10.
11 - Aryna Sabalenka is the second player in the last 20 years to win their opening 11 Women's Singles Grand Slam matches in consecutive seasons, after Serena Williams in 2009-10. Brilliant.
#rolandgarros | @rolandgarros @WTA @WTA_insider pic.twitter.com/HDfDITRnCt
— OptaAce (@OptaAce) June 3, 2024
Sabalenka's next match will be closely watched as she continues her impressive run at this year's French Open.
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