January 30, 2023
Aryna Sabalenka scripted a brilliant comeback to win her maiden Australian Open singles title after defeating Jelena Rybakina
The 24 year old from Belarus had previously won the US Open title in 2019 and the Australian Open title in 2021.
All Russian and Belarusian players are forced to compete without any national affiliation since Russian-Ukraine war.
Sabalenka became the first player in history to win a Grand Slam while competing under a neutral flag.
However, world politics took a back seat on Saturday as the two talented women fought it out for the Australian Open title.
Due to the rule enforced by the global tennis organisations no Belarusian flags were allowed inside the venue.
The winner's trophy will have no mention of Sabalenka's nationality. It has been a tough journey for Sabalenka.
Belarusian and Russian tennis players were banned from playing Wimbledon in 2022 and that had a major impact on her rankings.
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