The world number one in the women's tennis ranking, Aryna Sabalenka, qualified for the final of the Australian Open by defeating the Spaniard Paula Badosa in two sets. The match showcased the offensive and powerful game of the Belarusian, who will seek her third title in the tournament.
The encounter with Badosa, who is one of her best friends on the circuit, did not present major complications for Sabalenka, who appeared solid from the baseline. With this victory, Sabalenka advanced to the final of the Australian Open, where she will face the American Madison Keys.
For her part, Keys achieved an impressive victory over the Polish Iga Swiatek in an exciting match that was decided in the match tie-break. Showing great level of play, Keys managed to break Swiatek's serve on eight occasions, which proved crucial for her triumph.
This will be Keys' second Grand Slam final, as she previously reached the final of the US Open in 2017. On this occasion, she managed to prevail over one of the most dominant players of the decade, who had only lost seven games in her last four matches. The final between Sabalenka and Keys promises to be thrilling, as they will face each other for the sixth time, with a favorable head-to-head record for the Belarusian.
Despite the defeat, Badosa leaves Australia with positive feelings, demonstrating that she can compete at the highest level of women's tennis. The final of the Australian Open will take place next Saturday at a time yet to be confirmed, and will mark the clash between two players in great form.
