Aryna Sabalenka overpowers Madison Keys to book Wimbledon semi-final spot | Tennis News – Times of India

The second-seeded Sabalenka started strong by breaking Keys in the first game of the match. She converted her fourth break point with an excellent backhand shot that sailed just over the net and out of Keys’ reach.
Sabalenka broke Keys once again and served out the set to take a comfortable lead.

Although Keys, seeded 25th, managed to secure a break of her own in the second set, Sabalenka quickly regained control.
The Australian Open champion broke Keys’ serve again and closed out the match, securing her spot in the semi-finals at the All England Club. This marks Sabalenka’s second appearance in the Wimbledon semi-finals.

It was an amazing battle and I’m so happy to be back in the semi-final. I just hope to do better than last time,” said Sabalenka.
She was defeated in three sets by Karolina Pliskova in the last four in 2021.
“Madison is a great player. I’m super happy that I came back when I was 2-4 down, 0-40 in the second set,” she said.
“When I was a little girl I dreamed of winning Wimbledon. It’s something special here.”
Sabalenka secured a double break in the opening set, breaking Keys’ serve in the first and fifth games. Keys struggled with her game, committing 10 unforced errors compared to Sabalenka’s more accurate play.
Keys also required a visit from the tournament doctor when trailing 1-4 in the first set.
In the second set, Keys managed to break Sabalenka’s serve and take a 4-2 lead. She had a 40-0 advantage in the following game but couldn’t capitalise on it, allowing Sabalenka to break back immediately.
Sabalenka capitalised on her opportunities, holding her serve and breaking Keys once again to take a 5-4 lead. She converted her second match point to secure victory after 87 minutes of play on Court One.
(With Agency inputs)