Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko reaches the Australian Open last 16, setting up a dream match against world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
FAST-rising Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko has set up a dream clash with world number one Aryna Sabalenka at the Australian Open.
The 19-year-old defeated Denmark’s Clara Tauson 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 6-3 on Friday to reach the last 16 on her tournament debut.
This breakthrough sets up a blockbuster fourth-round match against top seed Sabalenka on Sunday.
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Mboko, who has rocketed from world number 337 to a career-high 16 in the past year, called the opportunity a dream come true.
“To be here, it’s my first-ever fourth round in a Grand Slam,” she said.
“I’ve never played a current number one in the world. That’s going to be a very different experience.”
She added that she assumes the match will be on Rod Laver Arena, marking another first by playing on a Grand Slam centre court.
Mboko burst onto the scene by winning her maiden WTA title at the Canadian Open in August, beating Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka.
She followed that with a victory at the Hong Kong Open in November and reached the final in Adelaide this month.
The teenager said she is learning quickly by facing high-quality opponents.
“Whether you win or lose, I think learning a lot can come into play,” Mboko stated.
Sabalenka, a two-time Australian Open champion, said she has been watching Mboko’s progress.
“I was watching some matches. She’s a great player, she’s a fighter,” said the Belarusian.
“I know it’s going to be a great battle. I’m super-excited to face her for the first time.” – AFP
