)
Aryna Sabalenka's quest for first Grand Slam title still alive, after defeating Magda Linette in straight sets.
Aryna Sabalenka has navigated her way into her first Grand Slam singles final after dispatching Magda Linette 7-6 6-2.
The Belarussian had it tough against Linette in the first set, who broke to love in the opening game. She is then broken from 40-0 as Sabalenka leveled up to 2-2.
)
After a series of brilliant plays from both players, a tiebreak was needed and Sabalenka dominated, taking the first set 7-6(1).
Playing with pure power and precision in the second set, Sabalenka broke for a 2-1 lead, then 4-1. Linette saved just two match points on her serve, as the No. 5 seed got the needed victory 6-2.
Big ups to Linette, who had her best career run in Melbourne, reaching her first Slam semifinal.
)
Sabalenka is now unbeaten in ten games this year and 20-0 in sets. The 24-year-old will face Elina Rybakina on Saturday, gunning to claim a maiden Grand Slam title. While Rybakina will be aiming for a second Grand Slam win, but first Australian title.
It will be the first time in the tournament's history that the two finalists haven't won the prestigious title before, which bodes for a mouthwatering clash.
)
Sabalenka will be the new world No. 2 on Monday, while Rybakina will make her top 10 debut.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)