Aryna Sabalenka isn't hiding that she is feeling excited ahead of her Indian Wells semifinal battle against Madison Keys as the Belarusian hopes she can get a win this time and make amends for the heartbreaking loss she suffered in the Australian Open final.
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A month and a half ago, the world No. 1 experienced one of the most painful losses of her career after the American edged her out 6-3 2-6 7-5 in the final at Melbourne Park. Moments after the final ended, the 26-year-old could have been slamming her racket and putting a towel over her face, before exiting the court to recollect herself.
Now, Sabalenka is set to meet Keys again. After the Australian Open, the American took a break to mentally and physically recharge. In Indian Wells, she started with four wins so now her winning streak stands at 16 consecutive matches. And the Belarusian will have a chance to end that on Friday night.
Sabalenka: I'm happy I have the opportunity to get this revenge
"I'm excited. I'm really excited. I really hope I can do a little bit better than I did in Australia," the Australian Open runner-up admitted.
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When asked if the Australian Open final loss would provide her with any additional motivation, she world No. 1 said: "It's only coming to my mind as motivation to get back that revenge. It was a tough match. She played great there. I didn't play my best, and I'm really happy that tomorrow I will have opportunity to get this revenge back."
Also, Sabalenka made it clear she will be eager to correct some things this time.
"Well, that's why I love sport, because if you're not giving up, if you're working hard, life will bring you opportunity to improve your mistakes you made in the last match," the Belarusian said.
