Aryna Sabalenka Chases Fourth Wuhan Title After Recovering in Greece

WUHAN, China — Aryna Sabalenka returned to the Dongfeng Voyah · Wuhan Open, eager to secure her fourth consecutive title after enjoying a recovery retreat in Greece. Sabalenka, ranked World No. 1, took time off following her latest victory at the US Open last month due to a minor injury.

“I feel good,” Sabalenka said to reporters Sunday in Wuhan, emphasizing her careful approach to recovery and preparation for the tournament. The Wuhan Open began Monday, featuring some of the top players in women’s tennis.

Sabalenka has previously dominated the Wuhan arena, clinching titles in 2018, 2019, and 2024, making her 17-0 in matches held here. This impressive track record draws parallels to Serena Williams, who previously won 21 consecutive matches in Rome.

The eighth edition of the Wuhan Open includes eight of the top ten players in the PIF WTA Rankings and a substantial 64-player draw. Sabalenka’s quest for a fourth title also intertwines with the tight competition for remaining spots in the WTA Finals in Riyadh.

“Am I confident about winning for the fourth time?” she posed during her press conference. “I don’t know about that, but I can assure you that I will do my best, and hopefully I can claim this beautiful title again.”

Amanda Anisimova, another top player, withdrew from the tournament due to a calf injury sustained after her recent victory in Beijing. However, she remains optimistic about competing at the Ningbo Open next week and the WTA Finals.

While competing against a formidable field, including fellow competitors like Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek, Sabalenka’s drive for victory is palpable as she steps into this year’s event.