World number one Aryna Sabalenka progresses at the Brisbane International, stating she is not yet at her peak ahead of her Australian Open title defence.
BRISBANE: World number one Aryna Sabalenka secured a place in the Brisbane International quarter-finals with a straight-sets victory over Sorana Cirstea.
The Belarusian, who won 6-3, 6-3 in 70 minutes, said she still has significant room for improvement as she builds towards the Australian Open.
“I think there is always room to improve, and I’m definitely not at my peak,” Sabalenka said.
She will next face either Russian Diana Shnaider or American Madison Keys, who defeated her in last year’s Australian Open final.
Sabalenka emphasised the value of being tested in the lead-up to a Grand Slam.
She stated that playing top players in Brisbane, which features seven of the world’s top 10, is ideal preparation for Melbourne.
Former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina also advanced to the last eight with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Spain’s Paula Badosa.
The world number five from Kazakhstan said she expects a tough battle in her next match.
