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World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka has defeated three-time Grand Slam finalist Ons Jabeur at the Riyadh Season Tennis Cup. In the capital of Saudi Arabia, Sabalenka recovered from a set down to beat Jabeur 4-6 6-3 6-2.
Early in the first set, Sabalenka had the first break points in the second game. However, Jabeur was able to save Sabalenka's two consecutive break points and avoid going down by an early break. After saving two early break points, Jabeur earned the first break of the match in the seventh game for a 4-3 lead. In the 10th game, Jabeur managed to serve out for the opener.
After losing the first set, Sabalenka bounced back as she got her first break of the match in the sixth game of the second set. Up by a break, Sabalenka was able to hold on to her serve for the remainder of the set and force a decider.
In the third set, Sabalenka and Jabeur traded early breaks before the Belarusian dominated the remainder of the set to complete a comeback win.
Sabalenka completes her preseason by beating Jabeur
Last week, Sabalenka competed at the World Tennis League in Abu Dhabi. At the World Tennis League, Sabalenka appeared in four singles matches and also took part in a couple of doubles tournaments. For Sabalenka, it was certainly a great preparation for the 2023 season despite her Team Kites losing in World Tennis League final to Team Eagles.
Now, Sabalenka will fly to Australia to start her 2024 season. In her first tournament of the season, Sabalenka will compete at the Brisbane International. In Brisbane, 25-year-old Sabalenka will be making her debut appearance.
"I’m excited about starting my 2024 Australian season in Brisbane. Australia holds a special place in my heart after winning my first Grand Slam there. I can’t wait to make my debut at the Brisbane International and play in front of the Queensland tennis fans," Sabalenka said after confirming her first tournament of the year.