Aryna Sabalenka is set to make a return to the Brisbane International in the first week of 2025, after a successful run at the tournament at the start of the 2024 season. The Belarusian tennis star had her first taste of the Brisbane event earlier this year, making it all the way to the final. Although she ultimately fell short against Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina, the 26-year-old’s performance in Brisbane was an important stepping stone to an even more successful Australian swing, which included a dominant Australian Open title defense.
Sabalenka, currently ranked world No. 2, was pleased with her experience in Brisbane and has committed to returning for the 2025 edition of the WTA 500 tournament. The event is scheduled to take place from December 29, 2024, to January 5, 2025, and is expected to feature several top-tier players as they prepare for the Australian Open. The three-time Grand Slam champion will be looking to add the Brisbane trophy to her impressive collection as she kicks off another campaign in Australia.
In her 2024 debut at the Brisbane International, Sabalenka made a strong statement by cruising through the tournament without dropping a set on her way to the final. Her path to the title match included wins over several top competitors, showcasing her power, precision, and determination. However, in the final, she met Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, who proved to be a formidable opponent. Rybakina delivered a commanding performance, defeating Sabalenka 6-0, 6-3 in a match that was far more one-sided than many had anticipated.
During the final, Rybakina’s dominance was clear from the outset. She took control early, racing to a 6-0, 2-0 lead before Sabalenka managed to get on the scoreboard. Despite the lopsided result, Sabalenka handled the defeat with humor and grace, jokingly blaming her team for the loss during the trophy presentation. “You did a terrible job today. Wow. 6-0, 6-3. It’s all your fault, guys!” she quipped, attempting to keep the mood light-hearted even though it was obvious that she was not entirely pleased with the outcome.
Addressing Rybakina directly, Sabalenka was gracious in defeat, congratulating her on the victory. “First of all, Elena, wow. Thanks at least for those three games. We made it look like a fight,” she joked. Sabalenka also praised Rybakina’s team for their efforts and expressed hope that the two would meet again soon, saying, “Great job, congratulations to you and your team on a great week. And see you in Melbourne.”
Despite the disappointment of losing in Brisbane, Sabalenka bounced back in remarkable fashion. She went on to defend her Australian Open title in Melbourne, winning the tournament without dropping a single set, just as she had done the previous year. Her 2024 Australian Open triumph capped off an impressive 11-1 record across the Australian swing, cementing her status as one of the top players in the world.
The announcement of Sabalenka’s return to Brisbane in 2025 has generated excitement among tennis fans, as she will have another opportunity to challenge for the title that eluded her earlier this year. Brisbane organizers have also confirmed the participation of world No. 3 Jessica Pegula, who will be making her first appearance at the tournament. Pegula, who reached the final of the 2024 US Open but lost to Sabalenka, will be eager to start her 2025 season on a high note in Brisbane. The American, known for her consistency and strong all-around game, will undoubtedly be one of the top contenders for the Brisbane crown alongside Sabalenka.
The Brisbane International has long been regarded as a key warm-up event for the Australian Open, attracting many of the sport’s biggest stars. With Sabalenka and Pegula confirmed, the tournament promises to deliver high-quality tennis as the players fine-tune their games ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year. Both players will be looking to use the tournament as a springboard to Australian Open success.
Sabalenka’s decision to return to Brisbane is also indicative of her desire to maintain her dominance on the WTA Tour. After an outstanding 2024 season that saw her capture her third Grand Slam title, she will be aiming to continue her momentum into 2025. The Brisbane International will give her the chance to test her form against some of the world’s best players and to prepare herself for another deep run at the Australian Open, where she will be a strong favorite to defend her title once again.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Sabalenka as she begins her campaign in Brisbane. With her powerful game and fierce determination, the Belarusian is sure to be a major contender not only for the Brisbane title but for more Grand Slam glory in the months to come. Fans can expect thrilling battles on the hard courts of Brisbane as Sabalenka looks to avenge her loss to Rybakina and continue her rise to the top of women’s tennis.