In Cancun’s vibrant heart, did tennis sensation Aryna Sabalenka unleash a performance so commanding that it sent ripples across the digital world? Defeating Maria Sakkari in under 75 minutes, Sabalenka’s victory didn’t just resonate on the court but ignited fierce online debates. But why are netizens raising eyebrows? Questions surrounding the performances and the discussion about the aftermath of the game did more than just determine a winner.
In a surprising twist at the WTA Finals, Aryna Sabalenka, defying records, stormed past Maria Sakkari in a near-flawless game. While Sabalenka eyes a historic year-end achievement, mirroring the likes of Serena Williams, Sakkari grapples with a form slump. Sabalenka’s recent dominance is indicative of her securing the coveted No.1 spot
Aryna Sabalenka conquers in WTA finals: Sakkari faces backlash from fans
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In Mexico, World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka delivered a tennis masterclass. She breezed past Maria Sakkari in the GNP Seguros WTA Finals opener. Completing the match in a brisk 74 minutes with a score of 6-0, 6-1, Sabalenka left little doubt about her dominance on the court. This one-sided affair caught the attention of Journalist José Morgado, who noted on X about the sheer dominance of the tennis player over her opponent, commenting:
Sabalenka bagels Sakkari in Cancún in 36 minutes.
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) October 30, 2023
The sheer magnitude of the win didn’t sit well with many tennis enthusiasts online. Fans quickly took to social media platforms, voicing their opinions, some more brutally candid than others. A user remarked about Sakari not being up to the mark to reach the platform in the first place, harshly adding:
It’s one-way traffic, sakkari shouldn’t have been in Cancun in the first place
— Omamuzo (@MamZees) October 30, 2023
Another spectator added how the situation was terrible for Sakkari given her experience and nothing unfortunately seemed to be going her way, “That’s embarrassing from Sakkari, but not funny.”
That´s embarrassing from Sakkari, but not funny.
— guigorank (@guigorank57725) October 30, 2023
A sentiment was echoed by another tweet pointing out an opinion about the elites of the game, commenting:
“Elite of the elites” lmao Sakkari is horrid
— tonio (@ANTONIOEESPARZA) October 30, 2023
The overwhelming victory also sparked debate about equal prize money, with a fan pointedly remarking, “And then they ask for equal prize money.” This reply though did not sit well with other spectators who commented about the unnecessary nature of the mention of the matter here.
And then they ask for equal prize money🤣
— destroyer (@destroyercr8) October 30, 2023
As the digital world buzzes with varied reactions, it’s essential to delve deeper into the match dynamics and the players’ journey. Both athletes, with their unique strengths and histories set the stage for a riveting contest, reflecting the depth and passion in women’s tennis today.
READ MORE: Aryna Sabalenka Opens Up on ‘Crazy’ Meeting With Soccer Legend David Beckham in Miami
On course for No.1: Sabalenka silences Sakkari at WTA finals
Despite Sakkari’s previous 2-0 record against Sabalenka at the WTA Finals, Sabalenka dominated their recent match from the outset. Saving four break points early on, she claimed the first set in a mere 37 minutes, delivering Sakkari’s first 6-0 set defeat of the season. Sabalenka’s aggressive gameplay persisted, bringing her to the brink of a flawless victory.
Aiming for her maiden season-end No.1 WTA ranking, the tennis star saved all five break points and now stands alongside Jessica Pegula atop the Bacalar group, boasting a 2-0 record without dropping a set. Sabalenka, last year’s runner-up, is eyeing a notable achievement: becoming the first to reach consecutive year-end championship finals since Serena Williams in 2013-2014.
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Alongside this, she’s vying to be the 16th WTA year-end No.1, with Iga Swiatek closely tailing her. On the other hand, Sakkari, despite appearing calm, struggled to find her rhythm. She attributes her off day to an extended break post-China and limited practice. She remains hopeful for a turnaround by Tuesday.
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At the WTA Finals, Sabalenka’s mastery overshadowed Sakkari, stirring significant digital reactions. With Sabalenka’s eye on the top ranking and Sakkari seeking resilience, one wonders: Who will rise in their next showdown?
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