By Jess Anderson

Australian Open 2025

Dates: 12-26 January Venue: Melbourne Park

Coverage: Live radio commentary on Tennis Breakfast from 07:00 GMT on BBC 5 Sports Extra, plus live text commentaries on the BBC Sport website and app

Aryna Sabalenka says the Australian Open “feels like home” after she began her title defence with a straight-set victory over American Sloane Stephens.

The world number one and back-to-back champion in Melbourne defeated Stephens 6-3 6-2 in the first round on Rod Laver Arena.

The 26-year-old Belarusian is aiming to become just the seventh player to claim a third straight Australian Open women’s singles title, and the first since Martina Hingis in 1999.

“I’m super happy to be back. I love this place and we have a full stadium, I couldn’t dream for more,” said Sabalenka, who overcame a wobble in the opening set to take victory.

“I don’t feel like I played my best probably but I’m glad that I managed to close this in straight sets.

“It definitely feels like home.”

Sabalenka has now won 28 of her last 29 matches in hard-court Slams since the start of 2023, including 15 consecutive matches at the Australian Open.

She has also won 17 consecutive sets at Melbourne Park and is the heavy favourite for the women’s title.

Source: bbc.com