Aryna Sabalenka has showcased her potential for clinching the French Open title with another dominant performance, advancing to the third round at Roland Garros. The world number two swiftly dispatched Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima, winning 6-2, 6-2 in just 62 minutes under the roof on Court Philippe Chatrier. This commanding victory follows her equally impressive opening match, where she dropped only three games against Erika Andreeva.
Sabalenka’s next challenge will be against former quarter-finalist Paula Badosa, who overcame a first-set deficit to defeat Kazakhstan’s Yulia Putintseva 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. Badosa ended the tournament run of British number one Katie Boulter in the process. Additionally, fourth seed Elena Rybakina, a potential semi-final opponent for Sabalenka, also secured her spot in the next round by recovering from a 4-2 deficit in the second set to win 6-3, 6-4 against Arantxa Rus of the Netherlands on Court Suzanne Lenglen.
Sabalenka, who reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros in 2023, has consistently made it to at least the semi-finals in her last six Grand Slam appearances. The 26-year-old Belarusian demonstrated her signature blend of power and finesse, recording 27 winners in her efficient victory over the 83rd-ranked Uchijima.
The year has already been significant for Sabalenka, who began by successfully defending her Australian Open title. She continued her impressive form on clay, reaching the finals of both the Madrid Open and the Italian Open, though she was bested by world number one Iga Swiatek on both occasions. Swiatek herself showed resilience at the French Open, saving a match point to defeat Naomi Osaka in a thrilling three-set encounter on Wednesday.
The French Open schedule has been frequently disrupted by rain, causing delays and postponements. One such match was reigning Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova’s contest against American Katie Volynets, which was halted with Vondrousova a set down but leading in the second set at 6-0, 1-4.
As Sabalenka continues her quest for her first French Open title, her formidable performances suggest she is well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead and possibly emerge as the champion at Roland Garros.
