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New Delhi: World number one tennis player Aryna Sabalenka started off her 2026 campaign on a high with a commanding victory at the Brisbane International while men's player Nick Kyrgios suffered an early exit on Tuesday. Sabalenka registered a destructive 6-0, 6-1 victory over Spain's Cristina Bucsa in the second round match.
The contest turned into a lop-sided one as Bucsa failed to retaliate with her efforts falling flat in front of the classical tennis player in both the sets. The contest just lasted for 47 minutes as it helped the Belarusian tennis giant book a place in the third round of the competition. Her dominant performance marked a commanding start to the new year.
Sabalenka, along with Nick gained a lot of spotlight on arrival in Brisbane after their recent exhibition match, in which the latter defeated the former. Out of the two players, it was only Sabalenka who managed to translate the attention into success on the tennis court. The female tennis player has made a sensational start to her title defence, which she will aim to defend.
The world number one was dominant from the word go in the game as she wrapped up the first set in just 22 minutes of play, sending a clear signal to her opponent and spectators that she is here to rule. In the process, she managed to break Bucsa's serve three times, eventually winning the other set and match in next 25 minutes.
Sabalenka finished the match with 18 winners against just nine unforced errors - a statement performance as she builds towards the Australian Open, which begins on January 18. 'Definitely my serve worked really well,' Sabalenka said after the match. 'I did a couple of serve-and-volleys, which is like, 'wow'. I'm super happy with the level. I'm happy to be back. I always enjoy playing in front of all you guys. That was a great performance from me.'
On the other hand, Nick Kyrgios, who made his singles return after nearly an year away, was unable to show any courage, losing the battle against American Aleksandar Kovacevic in straight sets. Having a tough return to the game, struggled hard before going down 3-6, 4-6 in a clash which lasted for 65 minutes.
The 30-year-old Australia tennis player is now hoping for a wildcard entry to the upcoming Australia Open and he will aim at showcasing some courage at least in the doubles in the ongoing competition.
