Sabalenka Seeks Fourth Consecutive Final as Svitolina Awaits in Melbourne
MELBOURNE, 29 January 2026 – World number one Aryna Sabalenka stands two victories away from cementing her dominance at the Australian Open, targeting a third women’s singles title in four years. The Belarusian powerhouse faces a formidable semi-final hurdle in Ukrainian 12th seed Elina Svitolina, a match that promises high stakes and intense rivalry.
Path to the Semi-Finals
Aryna Sabalenka has marched through the Melbourne draw with characteristic power, dismissing a series of teenage challengers. She opened her quarter-final campaign with a 6-1, 7-6(1) victory over 19-year-old Canadian Vicky Mboko, before delivering a commanding 6-3, 6-0 win against 18-year-old American sensation Iva Jovic. Sabalenka praised the new generation, stating, “It’s incredible to see these kids coming up on the tour.” Her opponent, Elina Svitolina, reached her first Australian Open semi-final in stunning fashion, needing only 59 minutes to end a run of three quarter-final losses with a lopsided win over world number three Coco Gauff.
Key Facts & Rankings
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current WTA Ranking | No. 1 (10,990 points) |
| Australian Open Record | Champion (2023, 2024), Finalist (2025) |
| Recent Form | Won 45 of last 50 sets at Grand Slam level |
| Semi-Final Opponent | Elina Svitolina (UKR), World No. 12 |
| Head-to-Head | Sabalenka leads the rivalry |
Beyond the Baseline
Off the court, Sabalenka has been in the spotlight for more than just tennis. She was recently announced as a new global brand ambassador for the luxury fashion house Gucci, describing the partnership as a “best fit” for her bold and expressive style. In a lighter moment, the world number one expressed a humorous desire to partner 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in mixed doubles, stating she is “awaiting a message” from the Serbian star. Sabalenka has also spoken openly about future life plans, indicating an ideal timeline to start a family around age 32 but affirming her intention to return to the sport afterwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone challenge Sabalenka’s world No. 1 ranking?
Despite all top-six ranked women reaching the Australian Open quarter-finals, Sabalenka’s position at the summit of the WTA rankings remains secure for now, thanks to her significant points lead.
What is Sabalenka’s record at the Australian Open?
The Belarusian has been the dominant force in Melbourne in recent years, winning back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024 and finishing as runner-up in 2025. A victory this year would mark her third title in four years.
Who did Sabalenka beat to reach the semi-finals?
She defeated two teenagers en route: Vicky Mboko (19) of Canada in the fourth round and Iva Jovic (18) of the United States in the quarter-finals.