Sabalenka Advances to Second Round at French Open

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka commenced her French Open campaign with a convincing 6-1, 6-0 victory over Kamilla Rakhimova in the first round at Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.

The top-ranked player asserted control from the outset, demonstrating her superior game against Rakhimova, who struggled against Sabalenka’s powerful performance.

Sabalenka clinched nine consecutive games to seal the match and progress to the subsequent stage of the French Open.

During the match, Sabalenka delivered five aces, struck 30 winners, and successfully broke her opponent’s serve five times, securing a comfortable win.

Following her victory, Sabalenka conveyed her joy at returning to Paris. She also mentioned her fondness for competing, acknowledged the difficulty of initial rounds, and expressed satisfaction with her win.

“I’m super happy to be back in Paris,” Sabalenka stated.

“I love playing in front of you guys and I’m excited. The first rounds are always tricky … but I’m super happy to get the win and go through.”

Sabalenka reached the semi-finals of the French Open in 2023 but has yet to reach the final.

Arriving in Paris as one of the most dominant players, Sabalenka is aiming for her first French Open title.

The current US Open champion has secured a tour-leading three titles this year, including her third Madrid title last month, bringing her season record to 35-6.

In the second round, Aryna Sabalenka is set to compete against either Jil Teichmann or qualifier Lucrezia Stefanini.