Sabalenka makes hot start to season in Brisbane

Aryna Sabalenka won against Lucia Bronzetti 6-3, 6-0 on Wednesday night. She’ll play the winner of Danielle Collins and Lin Zhu in the next round

Zuma/Panoramic

Bren Gray

January 3, 2024

Brisbane International Presented by Evie •Third round • completed

See draw

A. SabalenkavsL. Bronzetti

World No 2 Aryna Sabalenka has made a fast start to the Australian swing in 2024, defeating, Italian Lucia Bronzetti 6-3, 6-0 to reach the last 16 of the Brisbane International on Wednesday night.

This time last year, Sabalenka claimed her maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne. Now, with the defence of this crown looming in 10 days’ time, it seems as though the 25-year-old has brought her best tennis down under once again.

The top seed lost just three games across the straight sets victory, firing down eight aces and breaking her opponent on four occasions.

Sabalenka d. Bronzetti 6-3 6-0 in Brisbane

Aryna wins her first match of the season.

Looking confident, fit, & hungry for another big year.

The Tiger Queen has arrived down under.

Spread the word. 🐅 pic.twitter.com/mtFCvZnOPl
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 3, 2024

Sabalenka made it clear just how special a place Australia holds in her heart when addressing the crowd after her victory:

“I have goosebumps thinking about the Australian Open Final. I’m super happy to be back. I have a lot of good memories. I want to do my best to replicate the result this year,” she said.

“Guys, if I would have your support at the US Open, I probably would win that one. Can you come at the US Open next year?”

Next up Sabalenka will play the winner of the match between American Danielle Collins and Chinese Lin Zhu, the No 15 seed. In the previous round, Bronzetti, ranked No 52, beat American Ashlyn Krueger (6-4, 7-5).