After Asian-swing struggles, Aryna Sabalenka beats Karolina Muchova in WTA Finals first group match
Sabalenka rallies in both sets
Muchova took the first break of the opening set, but Sabalenka responded immediately. The same pattern returned during a closely fought match, with Sabalenka eventually taking the set in a tie-break, 7-2.
The second set included five breaks of serve. Sabalenka needed a second opportunity to serve out the match, completing a 7-5 set and a straight-sets win.
Serve remained inconsistent
Sabalenka struck seven double faults and four aces, while landing 59% of her first serves. She won 33 of the 44 points played behind those first deliveries. Speaking about her serving adjustments, Sabalenka said, “Sometimes I had to adjust my toss, sometimes I had to serve blind, but it's all part of the game.”
A leading contender in the field
Elena Rybakina, the world number one, withdrew on the eve of the competition. Her absence has left Sabalenka among the leading favourites to win the season-ending event.
Key points
- Sabalenka defeated Muchova 7-6 (7-2) 7-5 in her opening group match.
- She came back from a break down in both sets.
- Her serve produced seven double faults and four aces.
- Rybakina withdrew before the competition, leaving Sabalenka a leading contender.