Top seed Aryna Sabalenka kicked off her Wimbledon campaign with an impressive 6-1, 7-5 victory over Canada’s Carson Branstine on Monday. The World No. 2 showcased her powerful game, securing a spot in the second round where she will face Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic.
Sabalenka stormed through the first set, claiming the first five games with aggressive strokes and strong serves. Branstine, a qualifier from Canada, finally got on the scoreboard to applause from the crowd, but Sabalenka wrapped up the set shortly after.
The second set saw a spirited fight from Branstine, who delivered several aces and stayed level with Sabalenka until 5-5. However, Sabalenka seized the momentum, breaking Branstine’s serve and then holding her own to clinch the match.
“I think the goal is to win as quickly and easily as possible, so physically you’re fresher for the next rounds,” Sabalenka said after the match. “But it was really good for me to have this little fight in the second set, just to see where my level is and if I’m mentally ready to fight.”
Chinese Players Yuan Yue and Zhang Shuai Fall in First Round
China’s Yuan Yue faced a tough battle against Germany’s Eva Lys, ultimately falling in three sets. After dropping the first set 6-4, Yuan fought back courageously in the second, saving two match points and edging it 7-5. However, Lys regained control in the decider, winning 6-2 to advance to the second round.
Another Chinese player, Zhang Shuai, came up short against Serbia’s Olga Danilovic. Zhang struggled to find her rhythm as Danilovic dominated the first set 6-2. Despite Zhang’s efforts to turn the tide, Danilovic maintained her momentum, taking the second set 6-4 and securing her place in the next round.
The early exits of Yuan and Zhang mark a disappointing start for Chinese players at this year’s Wimbledon. Fans will be looking to other players from the region to make their mark as the tournament progresses.
