Sabalenka warns and warms-up

Aryna Sabalenka prepared for the Australian Open with a comfortable victory over Marta Kostyuk to win a third Brisbane International title.

The world number one took control of Sunday’s final by reeling off five consecutive games from 4-4 in the opening set, taking just 79 minutes to win 6-4 6-3.

Sabalenka defended her crown at the Queensland Tennis Centre, where she also won the title in 2023.

It was the perfect preparation for the 27-year-old Belarusian, who is aiming for a third title in four years at the Australian Open, which begins in Melbourne on 18 January.

“Every day you go out there and prove your level, and I think this week I did it really well,” said Sabalenka, who did not drop a set in the tournament.

Looking ahead to the Australian Open, she said: “The only thing I know is that I’ll be there, I’ll be fighting.”

Salablenka lost in the Melbourne Park final last year to Madison Keys, having been champion in 2023 and 2024.

“I’ll do my best to go as far as possible,” she added. “And do a little bit better than last year. That’s my focus.” 

(BBC sport)