Top seed Aryna Sabalenka overcame some early resistance against Switzerland’s Jill Teichmann before storming into the third round of the French Open on Wednesday.
The world No.1 was trailing 1-3 early on before winning 11 out of the next 12 games to seal a 6-3, 6-1, victory. Sabalenka has now won 85 Grand Slam matches during her career with 18 of those being at Roland Garros. Against Teichmann, she fired 32 winners against 22 unforced errors and won 72% of her first service points.
“She started really well. I think she played probably her best game,” Sabalenka said afterwards.
“It is always tough matches against her. She’s a very tricky opponent and the variety is crazy.
“She really made me work for every point and I’m really happy with this win.“
Known for her powerful ball striking, Sabalenka also illustrated the softer side of her game with a series of delicate drop shots that outmanoeuvred Teichmann. She also won 14 out of 19 points played at the net.
“We’ve (her team) been working a lot on a variety of my game and coming into the net,” Sabalenka explained.
“I’m really happy that it’s working in the matches and it gives me lots of benefits.”
Seeking her first trophy in Paris, Sabalenka has conceded just five games in her first two matches in this year’s draw. In the first round, she stormed past Kamilla Rakhimova 6-1, 6-0. Overall, the Belarussian has won 31 matches in straight sets this season which is more than any other player.
Awaiting her in the next round will be Serbia’s Olga Danilovic who defeated Danielle Collins 6-4, 3-6, 6-4. Sabalenka leads their head-to-head 1-0.
