Second seed Aryna Sabalenka hopes to continue pushing herself after becoming the youngest woman in over 20 years to reach a seventh straight Grand Slam quarter-final at the French Open.
Sabalenka, who is a two-time Australian Open champion, eased her way to a 6-2, 6-3, win over Emma Navarro in the fourth round at Roland Garros on Monday. The victory is a case of sweet revenge for the Belarusian who lost her first meeting against Navarro in Indian Wells earlier this year. This time round she dominated proceedings on the Philippe-Chatrier court by winning 85% of her first service points and hitting 36 winners.
The triumph continues Sabalenka’s recent surge in success at the major events. At the age of 26, she is the youngest woman to feature in the last eight of seven consecutive Grand Slams since Venus Williams (2001-2003).
“It sounds crazy to me, to be honest, and I’m super happy that I was able to bring this consistency to the Grand Slams.”Said Sabalenka.
“It’s motivating me a lot to keep pushing myself a lot and to see where is the limit.”
As to what is the reason behind such consistency, Sabalenka says her experience is playing a key part. She has played 92 matches at this level so far in her career.
“Grand Slams, that’s the goal for everyone and everyone feels the pressure. It’s kind of like getting more intense on the Grand Slams.” She commented.
“But with the experience, I figure out how to manage this pressure. During match day I’m really focused and I’m feeling all the pressure, to be honest. I’m dealing with that.
“But on the day off, I’m able to completely switch off and forget about tennis. Go out and have fun just for my mental health to be strong and ready for the next round. It’s all about how you’re able to manage the energy.”
Sabalenka is among the top five seeds to reach the quarter-finals of the French Open women’s draw. Something that last happened at the tournament back in 2013.
Awaiting her in the next round will be Italian world No.15 Jasmine Paolini. She is yet to be defeated by a player outside of the top 10 on clay this year.
