Sabalenka wins first title since Australian Open

Aryna Sabalenka claimed her first title since winning the Australian Open in January, dominating Jessica Pegula in the final of the Cincinnati Open. The Belarusian star secured a 6-3, 7-5 victory in just 76 minutes, marking the 15th title of her career and her sixth at the WTA 1,000 level.

This win ended a nine-match winning streak for American Pegula, who had successfully defended her Canadian Open title the previous week.

“This trophy means a lot; it’s a really big achievement, especially coming after injury, with the fear of getting injured again,” Sabalenka shared in her courtside interview, which was broadcast by Sky Sports. “My team did everything they could to make sure I felt as good as I can, and I am proud of myself for handling all of those emotions.”

After overcoming a shoulder injury that kept her out of Wimbledon, Sabalenka, who will rise to world number two, dominated the first set, breaking Pegula in the fourth game. Though she encountered a slight setback while serving for the match at 5-4 in the second set, allowing sixth seed Pegula to break back, Sabalenka quickly recovered. She broke Pegula again and successfully served out the match, celebrating by blowing kisses to the crowd.

The 26-year-old, who had also defeated world number one Iga Świątek in the semi-final, is now preparing for her next challenge at the US Open, which begins on August 26.