Aryna Sabalenka found herself in a familiar spot Friday night – facing multiple break points in her opening service game, just as she had in the second round earlier this week.
This time, the World No. 1 held firm, saving three break points to take an early lead in a match she never trailed.
Sabalenka defeated No. 31 seed Leylah Fernandez for the first time in her career, winning 6-3, 7-6 (2) in 1 hour and 39 minutes before a packed crowd at Louis Armstrong Stadium.
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With the victory, she advanced to the fourth round of the US Open for the fifth consecutive year and avenged her loss to Fernandez in the 2021 semifinals.
“It was definitely an exciting match,” Sabalenka said after the match. “Last time we met, it was a great battle. She played an incredible match, and I wanted this revenge badly, so I’m super happy with the win. She’s a great player, a great competitor and always brings you the fight on court.”
More to come…