Aryna Siarhiejeŭna Sabalenka made history on Sunday as she became the first Belarusian to win the Australia Open Women’s Singles title, defeating the defending champion Naomi Osaka in a thrilling three-set encounter. In a game that lasted two hours and twenty-six minutes, Sabalenka clinched the title with a 6–4, 3–6, 6–3 victory over the Japanese superstar.

Who is Aryna Sabalenka?

Aryna Sabalenka is a professional tennis player from Belarus. She was born on May 5, 1998, in Minsk, Belarus. Sabalenka is known for her powerful and aggressive playing style. She has won multiple WTA Tour singles titles, including the Wuhan Open in 2018 and the Shenzhen Open in 2020.

Sabalenka reached a career-high singles ranking of No. 6 in September 2020. She has also been successful in doubles, winning the doubles title at the 2019 French Open. Sabalenka is the first Belarusian player to reach the quarterfinals at the Australian Open.

She has represented Belarus in Fed Cup play and was part of the team that reached the final in 2018. Sabalenka has won multiple awards, including the WTA Most Improved Player of the Year award in 2018. Sabalenka is known for her aggressive playing style and powerful groundstrokes, particularly her forehand.

The first time ever for Belarus

Sabalenka’s incredible performance at the Australia Open marks the first time a Belarusian has ever been crowned champion of a major singles event. The 22-year-old's remarkable run to the title saw her beat some of the world’s best players, including Simona Halep, Petra Kvitova, and Serena Williams.

With her victory, Sabalenka not only secured the Australia Open title but also a place in history as the 2023 World Champion.