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Sabalenka Survives Mboko's Comeback, Advances to Quarters

1/26/2026

27 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the Australian Open quarterfinals by defeating Victoria Mboko 6-1, 7-6(1).
In the second set, Mboko saved three match points and mounted a comeback.
Sabalenka won the tiebreak, marking her 20th consecutive Grand Slam tiebreak victory.
Sabalenka praised Mboko's talent, saying, "She’s an amazing player."
Sabalenka will next face 18-year-old Iva Jovic, who has also impressed in the tournament.

History

Historical Context

Title IX, enacted in 1972, prohibited gender discrimination in education and sports, significantly boosting female participation in athletics. This legislative change paved the way for icons like Billie Jean King and Chris Evert in women's tennis. Today, Aryna Sabalenka's success at the Australian Open exemplifies this legacy, inspiring a new generation of players, including Iva Jovic and Victoria Mboko.

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Story summary

Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the Australian Open quarterfinals by defeating Victoria Mboko 6-1, 7-6(1).
In the second set, Mboko saved three match points and mounted a comeback.
Sabalenka won the tiebreak, marking her 20th consecutive Grand Slam tiebreak victory.
Sabalenka praised Mboko's talent, saying, "She’s an amazing player."
Sabalenka will next face 18-year-old Iva Jovic, who has also impressed in the tournament.

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