The second-ranked player Sabalenka confidently commenced her title defense at the Australian Open

The Australian Open 2024 kicked off on January 14.

Aryna Sabalenka, the world's second-ranked player in women's singles, competing in a neutral status, convincingly defeated Ella Seidel (Germany, WTA 172) in straight sets within 55 minutes in the 1st round match.

Australian Open 2024. 1/64. Hard

Ella Seidel (Germany) [Q] - Aryna Sabalenka [2] - 0:6, 1:6

This marked their first encounter on the tennis court.

In the 1/32 finals, Sabalenka will face Brenda Fruhvirtova, who secured victory over Ana Bogdan in the initial rounds.

It's worth noting that Aryna clinched the trophy at the Australian major last year, making it crucial for her to defend the title this year.

Earlier, the ATP world ranking leader, Novak Djokovic, triumphed over Dino Prizmic in four sets.