Sabalenka reaches third consecutive Australian Open final, aims for historic three-peat

Aryna Sabalenka has solidified her position as world No. 1 in the WTA rankings after reaching her third consecutive Australian Open final, defeating Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2. This victory marks her 20th straight win at Melbourne Park, and she aims to become the first woman since Martina Hingis to win three Australian Open titles in a row. Madison Keys, who has entered the top 10 for the first time, will challenge Sabalenka in the final. The rankings also saw Elena Rybakina return to the top 5, while both Keys and Badosa achieved significant career milestones. Players have acknowledged Sabalenka's formidable game, with Badosa describing it as akin to facing an opponent playing “Playstation.” Sabalenka's impressive form and mental fortitude have made her a tough competitor on the court, further establishing her dominance in women's tennis.