Sabalenka Starts WTA Finals with a Win

Aryna Sabalenka began the WTA Finals with a win, beating Karolina Muchova 7-6 (7-2) 7-5 in the Group 2 opening match played in Indian Wells. The match was a tight contest that lasted nearly two hours.

Sabalenka is a player who has lost in the WTA Finals final twice. Last year she lost the final to Elena Rybakina. This season she took the world number one ranking from Rybakina. Rybakina's late withdrawal from the tournament due to a viral illness and exhaustion improves Sabalenka's chances. Sabalenka also got off to a good start in this match by beating Wimbledon finalist Muchova.

In the first set, Sabalenka lost her serve and Muchova went up 3-2. When Sabalenka moved ahead 5-4, Muchova broke straight back and took the set herself. In the tiebreak, Sabalenka took control, losing only two points.

In the second set, Sabalenka squandered two break advantages, but then broke at a crucial moment to lead 6-5. She completed the match by serving out on her second match point. World number three Mirra Andreeva won the French Open Grand Slam title earlier this year. Andreeva will face Elina Svitolina in the same group.