Aryna Sabalenka Extends Wuhan Winning Streak as the World No.1 Targets Another Title After US Open Glory
Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning World No.1, has once again proven why she remains one of the most dominant forces in women’s tennis. The Belarusian star returned to the court at the Wuhan Open following her US Open triumph, overcoming early rust to extend her unbeaten run at the Chinese tournament. Her journey this season reflects both her fierce athleticism and growing maturity off the court.
Sabalenka Battles Back to Keep Her Perfect Record in Wuhan
In her first match since claiming her second consecutive US Open title, Aryna Sabalenka faced a tough test against world No.68 Rebecca Sramkova. After losing the first set 4–6, she rallied impressively to win 4–6, 6–3, 6–1. The victory preserved her remarkable 18–0 record at the Wuhan Open.
Sabalenka’s comeback was marked by improved serving and precision under pressure, turning the match around after a sluggish start. With three breaks of serve in the final set, she proved that even after a short break, her power and determination remain unmatched.
| Match Detail | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Rebecca Sramkova |
| Result | 4–6, 6–3, 6–1 |
| Sabalenka’s Wuhan Record | 18–0 |
| Next Opponent | Liudmila Samsonova (No.16 seed) |
Her next challenge comes against Russia’s Liudmila Samsonova, a player she has defeated three times in their previous five meetings.
Taking Time Off: The Smart Move Behind Sabalenka’s Return
After lifting the trophy in New York, Sabalenka chose to take an extended rest rather than rushing back to competition. She explained that physical recovery and mental balance were her top priorities. This decision, as it turns out, paid off — she returned fresher, more focused, and ready to compete at full capacity.
During her time off, Sabalenka vacationed in Greece with her partner Georgios Frangulis, enjoying some much-needed downtime. Photos from their trip showed the couple in matching summer outfits, a rare glimpse into the relaxed side of a player known for her fierce on-court demeanor.
Such a break also reflects a growing maturity in her career. Many champions in the past, from Serena Williams to Novak Djokovic, have highlighted the importance of controlled rest — a principle Sabalenka now seems to embrace fully.
Aryna Sabalenka’s 2025 Season at a Glance
Sabalenka’s 2025 season has been nothing short of impressive. Her ability to perform across different surfaces demonstrates her evolution from a power hitter to a complete, strategic player.
Notable Highlights:
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Miami Open: Captured the title without dropping a set, defeating Jessica Pegula in the final.
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Madrid Open: Outplayed Coco Gauff to clinch her third Madrid crown, equaling Petra Kvitova’s record.
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Stuttgart Final: Suffered a rare defeat against Jelena Ostapenko, who delivered a stunning upset.
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US Open: Defended her title successfully, beating Amanda Anisimova 6–3, 7–6(7–3).
| Tournament | Result | Opponent in Final |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Open | Winner | Jessica Pegula |
| Madrid Open | Winner | Coco Gauff |
| Stuttgart | Runner-up | Jelena Ostapenko |
| US Open | Winner | Amanda Anisimova |
Her back-to-back US Open victories make her the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to defend the title successfully — a milestone that cements her place among tennis’ modern legends.
Wuhan: Sabalenka’s Fortress in China
For Aryna Sabalenka, Wuhan is more than a tournament — it’s a stronghold. Since her debut, she has never lost a match there, with an 18–0 record that stands as one of the most impressive streaks in recent WTA history. The city has witnessed some of her career-defining performances, and she now aims to lift her fourth Wuhan title.
As Sabalenka’s confidence grows, so does her connection with the Chinese fans, who have welcomed her as one of their own. Her blend of power, emotion, and authenticity continues to win hearts both on and off the court.
Off the Court: Real Talk About Health and Authenticity
Aryna Sabalenka has recently shown a more personal side of herself on social media. In one post, she revealed that a facial scan warned her of “55-year-old skin damage” due to sun exposure, prompting her to increase her skincare routine and sunscreen use. “I am getting old,” she joked, blending humor with a serious message about athlete self-care.
Her openness extends beyond beauty concerns. She’s also been vocal about how social media helps her balance the emotional pressures of professional tennis. Describing herself as “an open book,” Sabalenka believes sharing parts of her life allows her to connect better with fans and maintain emotional balance during intense seasons.
What Lies Ahead for Aryna Sabalenka
With her Wuhan campaign underway and her confidence at a peak, Aryna Sabalenka looks poised for another remarkable finish to the 2025 season. If she captures the Wuhan Open once more, it will further solidify her dominance in Asia and mark her as one of the most consistent players of the decade.
Her evolution from raw power to composed leadership, both on and off the court, continues to inspire the next generation — proof that champions are not just made from titles, but from the courage to grow, rest, and return stronger than ever.
