LONDON — World number one Aryna Sabalenka battled through a grueling three-set match against Germany’s Laura Siegemund to secure her spot in the Wimbledon semi-finals, admitting afterward that she had "started thinking about booking the tickets home" during the tense encounter.
The Belarusian star, who is chasing her second Grand Slam title of the year after winning the Australian Open in January, overcame a slow start to triumph 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 in a match that lasted over two hours on Centre Court. Sabalenka’s power and resilience ultimately proved too much for Siegemund, but not before the German qualifier pushed her to the brink with relentless defense and crafty shot-making.
A Rocky Start
Sabalenka, known for her explosive baseline game, struggled early against Siegemund’s unorthodox style. The 35-year-old German, ranked 121st in the world, mixed slices, drop shots, and heavy topspin to disrupt Sabalenka’s rhythm. "She was playing unbelievable tennis," Sabalenka admitted. "I felt like I couldn’t find my game at all in the first set."
Despite the shaky start, Sabalenka managed to claw her way back, relying on her trademark aggression to edge the first set. However, Siegemund refused to fade, breaking Sabalenka twice in the second set to force a decider. The turning point came in the third set when Sabalenka, trailing 2-3, dug deep to reel off three consecutive games, sealing the match with a thunderous forehand winner.
Mental Battles and Momentum Swings
Sabalenka later revealed that her mental resilience was tested more than her physical endurance. "There were moments when I doubted myself," she said. "I was thinking, ‘Maybe today is not my day.’ But I kept fighting."
Key factors in her victory included:
- First-serve dominance: Sabalenka won 78% of points on her first serve, a crucial advantage in tight moments.
- Break point conversions: She saved 7 of 9 break points faced in the final set.
- Mental toughness: Despite 32 unforced errors, she stayed composed under pressure.
Siegemund’s Valiant Effort
Siegemund, who had never before reached the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam, earned widespread praise for her performance. "I gave everything I had," she said. "Aryna is one of the best players in the world, and I knew I had to bring something special. I’m proud of how I competed."
Looking Ahead: The Semi-Final Clash
Sabalenka will now face either Ons Jabeur or Elena Rybakina in the semi-finals, a rematch of last year’s Wimbledon final if Rybakina advances. "I’m just happy to be in the semis," Sabalenka said. "Every match here is a battle, and I’ll keep fighting for every point."
With this victory, Sabalenka extends her 2023 Grand Slam record to 22-2, reinforcing her status as one of the most dominant players on tour. A Wimbledon title would mark her second major of the year and further solidify her hold on the world No. 1 ranking.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
Tennis analysts praised Sabalenka’s ability to adapt mid-match. Former champion Martina Navratilova noted, "Aryna showed why she’s No. 1 today. When her back was against the wall, she found another gear." Fans on social media echoed the sentiment, with many calling the match "one of the most thrilling battles of the tournament."
As Sabalenka prepares for her semi-final, she remains focused on the ultimate prize. "I didn’t come here just to reach the semis," she said. "I want to win this title. It’s going to take everything I have, but I’m ready."