Melbourne, January 27, 2026 – World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showcased her dominance and composure on Tuesday, defeating 18-year-old Iva Jovic in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
With this win, Sabalenka moves one step closer to reclaiming the Melbourne Park title she won in 2023 and 2024.
Sabalenka, who had earlier beaten 19-year-old Victoria Mboko in the fourth round, delivered an emphatic 6-3, 6-0 victory over Jovic. While the scoreline appeared one-sided, Jovic fought hard throughout the match, with moments of competitiveness that challenged the Belarusian star. This tournament marks a breakthrough for the teenager, who will enter the top 20 rankings for the first time next month.
“These teenagers are testing me in the last couple of rounds,” Sabalenka said modestly. “She’s an incredible player. It was a tough match – don’t look at the score, it wasn’t easy at all. I’m super happy with the win.”
Tuesday’s match was played under sweltering conditions, with temperatures forecast to reach 45 degrees Celsius, the hottest day in Melbourne in 17 years. Sabalenka clinched the crucial opening set after saving three break points in a long ninth game, then went on to dominate the remainder of the match. She finished with 31 winners and seven aces in an 89-minute display of power and precision.
The roof at Rod Laver Arena closed shortly after the match, while organizers implemented heat stress protocols for the day, postponing junior and wheelchair matches to ensure player safety.
Sabalenka now faces American rival Coco Gauff in the semi-finals, with Gauff set to play 12th seed Elina Svitolina in Tuesday’s night session, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.