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Aryna Sabalenka sent an early-season warning to the rest of the WTA tour after powering past Karolína Muchová to book her place in the Brisbane International final. In a match that promised drama and delivered intensity, the world No. 1 showed why she enters 2026 as the woman everyone is chasing.
From the opening games, Sabalenka’s intent was crystal clear. She came out swinging, unleashing her trademark heavy groundstrokes and refusing to give Muchová time to settle into her creative rhythm. While the Czech star is known for her variety and tactical brilliance, Sabalenka’s raw power repeatedly broke through, forcing errors and putting her opponent on the defensive.
Muchová didn’t go quietly. She mixed slices, drop shots, and net approaches to disrupt Sabalenka’s baseline dominance, producing flashes of brilliance that kept the crowd engaged. But every time the match threatened to swing, Sabalenka responded with authority—whether it was a blistering return winner or a clutch serve at a critical moment.
The Belarusian’s composure was just as impressive as her firepower. In previous seasons, tight matches like this could spiral into frustration. This time, Sabalenka stayed locked in, managing her emotions and raising her level when it mattered most. It was a sign of a champion who has learned how to win even when things aren’t perfect.
By the time the final point was played, Sabalenka had stamped her ticket to the Brisbane final and reinforced her status as the favorite heading into the Australian Open swing. The victory wasn’t just about reaching another final—it was about momentum, confidence, and sending a message before Melbourne.
For Muchová, the loss stings, but there were positives to take. Her shot-making and court craft proved she can trouble even the very best when healthy and in form. For Sabalenka, though, this was all about business.
Now just one match away from the Brisbane title, Sabalenka stands on the brink of her first trophy of the year. If this performance is any indication, she’s not just warming up for the season—she’s setting the tone. And for her rivals watching closely, the message is clear: Aryna Sabalenka is ready to dominate, and 2026 may once again run straight through her racket.
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Musa
