Aryna Sabalenka overcame injury concerns and a determined Shelby Rogers to claim her place in the third round of the 2023 Miami Open.
The match began with an intense back-and-forth, as Sabalenka and Rogers exchanged powerful shots at the Hard Rock Stadium. But, as the second set began, Sabalenka appeared to be facing a significant obstacle. The Belarusian called for a trainer after the first game, visibly struggling with a left thigh injury that threatened to derail her progress.
Despite being down 3-1 in the second set, Sabalenka refused to back down. The World No. 2 showcased her mental fortitude and exceptional skill by winning 17 straight points, shifting the momentum of the match in her favor.
This impressive feat allowed her to secure a 6-4, 6-3 victory over the American and maintain her unblemished 4-0 record against Rogers. After the match, Sabalenka commented on her injury, saying:
“I don’t know, something happened in the second set. We’ll see tomorrow, hopefully I’ll be alright and I’ll be ready for the next match.”
With Iga Swiatek's withdrawal from the event, the Belarusian will have a chance to become the new world no. 1 probably much sooner than she expected and she spoke about the possible challenge for the spot after her second-round match.
"Of course I want to be No.1. Of course I want to win more Grand Slams, which is normal. I think every one of us, everyone wants to do that. Probably that's why it helped me to stay focused and helped me to keep working and just keep doing my best every day."
Fans will eagerly anticipate Sabalenka's third-round showdown with Czech Marie Bouzkova, as the World No. 2 looks to continue her march towards the 2023 Miami Open title.
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