Australian Open: Sabalenka enjoys Melbourne homecoming

Aryna Sabalenka picked up where she left off at the 2024 Australian Open, as she downed Sloane Stephens in straight sets to kick-start her 2025 campaign.

The two-time reigning champion, who is aiming to become the first woman to win the Australian Open in three successive seasons since Martina Hingis between 1995 and 1997, started her title defence in style, beating 2017 US Open winner Stephens 6-3 6-2.

Sabalenka charged into a rapid 4-0 lead in the opening set, as Stephens failed to cope with the world number one's power and precision.

A wobble from Sabalenka allowed Stephens to break twice in succession, but the Belarusian regained her composure to close out the set.

There was no let-up from Sabalenka in the second set, though, as two breaks of Stephens' serve paved the way for her to serve out the win at the first time of asking.

Sabalenka, who danced on court during her post-match interview, told a jubilant Melbourne crowd that "it feels like home" to be back at the Australian Open, where she has now won 15 straight matches.

15 - Aryna Sabalenka has become the first player with 15+ consecutive wins in Women’s Singles at the Australian Open since Victoria Azarenka (18 between 2012 and 2014). Fire. #AO2025 | @AustralianOpen @TennisAustralia pic.twitter.com/BurKXVWw93

— OptaAce (@OptaAce) January 12, 2025

Data Debrief: Home away from home

Sabalenka is gunning for a fifth title on Australian soil, and she is the first player to reel off 15 straight match wins in the Australian Open women's singles since Victoria Azarenka put together an 18-match winning streak between 2012 and 2014.

The 26-year-old has also won her last 17 first-round matches at the majors. The last time she lost an opener at a grand slam was at Melbourne Park in 2020, when she was defeated by Carla Suarez Navarro.