Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1, faced a heartbreaking defeat in the Australian Open final against Madison Keys. Despite being the favorite to win, Sabalenka was unable to clinch her third consecutive title, losing in a thrilling three-set match (6-3, 2-6, 7-5).
The match was intense, with Keys delivering a stellar performance in the first and third sets. Sabalenka, visibly frustrated, smashed her racket into the ground and buried her head in a towel after being broken in her final service game. She then stormed off to the locker room before the trophy ceremony.
However, Sabalenka returned to the court to collect her runner-up trophy and gave a characteristically humorous speech, not mentioning her post-match meltdown. Despite the loss, she managed to keep her wit about her, joking with her coaches and thanking them for their support.
Sabalenka’s reaction showed the depth of her disappointment, but also her resilience and sense of humor in the face of adversity. As she left the court in tears, fans and fellow players alike expressed their sympathy and admiration for her sportsmanship.
Aryna Sabalenka in 2025
At the moment ranked no.1, Aryna played her last encounter on the 25th of January when she surrendered to world no.14 Madison Keys 6-3 2-6 7-5 in the final of the Australian Open (draw).
At present, during this year Sabalenka has achieved a composed 11-1 match record. Sabalenka clinched 1 title in Brisbane. The Belarussian was the finalist at the Australian Open.