Remember the epic 2021 US Open semifinal between Sabalenka and Fernandez? Get ready for Round 2! World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is fired up for a rematch with Leylah Fernandez in the third round. Will history repeat itself, or has Sabalenka truly transformed her game for sweet revenge? Don’t miss this!
A highly anticipated clash is set to electrify the US Open as world number one Aryna Sabalenka prepares for a thrilling third-round rematch against Canada’s Leylah Fernandez. This encounter carries significant weight, marking a pivotal moment for both players in the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year.
Sabalenka demonstrated formidable form en route to this stage, dispatching Polina Kudermetova in straight sets with a dominant 7-6, 6-2 victory. Her consistent performance and strategic play underscore her current standing at the pinnacle of women’s tennis, positioning her as a formidable contender for the title.
Similarly, Leylah Fernandez earned her spot in the third round with a resilient performance, overcoming France’s Elsa Jacquemot in a hard-fought three-set match, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2. Fernandez’s ability to navigate challenging matches highlights her competitive spirit and determination on the Grand Slam stage.
The upcoming match is laden with history, as it marks only the second professional meeting between these two exceptional athletes. Their sole previous encounter, a stunning upset in the 2021 US Open semifinals, saw Fernandez defeat the then-number-two seed Sabalenka with a memorable 7-6, 4-6, 6-4 scoreline, a result that still resonates.
Addressing the media, Sabalenka expressed her profound excitement for the rematch, emphasizing her personal and professional evolution since their last battle. “I love rematches,” she declared, indicating a fresh perspective and a belief that this will be a “completely different match” given her growth as both a player and an individual.
Beyond the direct rivalry, the US Open experience has been a topic of discussion among players. Notably, Novak Djokovic echoed comments made by Casper Ruud regarding the distinctive atmosphere at Flushing Meadows, particularly the pervasive smell of marijuana. This aspect, while an unconventional feature of the tournament, adds a unique layer to the players’ Grand Slam journey.
As Sabalenka and Fernandez prepare to renew their rivalry, and as top players like Djokovic navigate the tournament’s unique environment, the US Open continues to deliver compelling narratives and high-stakes tennis, captivating audiences with every serve and volley.
