New York (AFP) – Defending US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka says she is “a better player and person” than the one who lost to Leylah Fernandez four years ago as they prepare for a re-run of their 2021 semi-final. Sabalenka overcame a spirited challenge from unseeded Russian Polina Kudermetova to advance to the third round in New York on Wednesday.
World number one Sabalenka edged a tense first set in the Arthur Ashe night session before putting away Kudermetova 7-6 (7/4), 6-2. The win sent Sabalenka through to a first meeting with Canadian 31st seed Fernandez since their semi-final clash at Flushing Meadows four years ago. Fernandez won that showdown before losing the final to Emma Raducanu, but Sabalenka is reluctant to dwell on the past.
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“I think I better (not) remember anything from that match, because I think I changed a lot,” said Sabalenka. “I had really tough challenges after that, and I went through. I found myself. I become a better player and a person. So I think it’s going to be completely different match. I better just don’t even try to remember that match. But, of course, I do remember a couple of things, and I love rematches. So I’m actually super excited facing her here again.”
The 27-year-old Sabalenka is bidding to become the first woman to retain the US Open title since Serena Williams in 2014. “I have to focus on myself. I know that if I’m able to bring my game and fight for every point I’ll have my chances. I try to bring the best fight possible every time,” said Sabalenka.
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