Aryna Sabalenka Dominates U.S. Open Opener

Aryna Sabalenka kicked off her U.S. Open campaign with a powerful 6-3, 6-3 win over Priscilla Hon. The Belarusian, who recently triumphed in Cincinnati, fought hard for every point, setting up a second-round clash with Lucia Bronzetti. Sabalenka's dominant forehand sealed her victory.

Aryna Sabalenka began her U.S. Open journey on Monday with a solid 6-3, 6-3 victory over qualifier Priscilla Hon at Louis Armstrong Stadium, displaying her tenacity on every point.

Sabalenka, who was a finalist last year and semifinalist in 2021 and 2022, struck 27 winners, leading to a second-round match against Lucia Bronzetti. 'Even though I didn't play my best tennis, I was fighting for every point,' said Sabalenka, who recently won in Cincinnati. 'She played aggressive, great tennis today. It wasn't easy facing her in the first round.'

Supported by the New York crowd, the twice Australian Open champion used her fierce forehand to break Hon early and eventually close out the first set. Despite trading breaks in the second set, Sabalenka clinched a crucial advantage with a backhand winner in the sixth game. Despite Hon's improved performance and zero unforced errors in the second set, she couldn't capitalize on her break points. Sabalenka, who took a break this season to address injuries, finished the match with forehand winners and a subdued celebration. 'I took everything I could from that little pause,' Sabalenka stated. 'Hopefully it's going to play well for me.'

(With inputs from agencies.)