A Gritty Quarter-Final Battle
Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1, showcased her trademark resilience and raw power as she clawed her way past Germany’s Laura Siegemund in a dramatic three-set quarter-final at Wimbledon. The encounter, which lasted nearly three hours on Centre Court, was a true test of nerves and adaptability, with Sabalenka ultimately prevailing 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 to book her third semi-final appearance at the All England Club.
Siegemund’s Tactical Brilliance
From the outset, 37-year-old Siegemund, ranked 104th in the world, imposed her unorthodox style on the match. Known more for her doubles prowess, Siegemund frustrated Sabalenka with a barrage of low, skidding slices and deft drop shots, refusing to engage in the power exchanges that typically favor the Belarusian. The German’s tactical acumen was on full display as she broke Sabalenka’s serve twice to race to a 3-0 lead in the opening set.
Sabalenka, who had not dropped a set in the tournament until this match, looked out of sorts in the early exchanges. She struggled to find her rhythm against Siegemund’s variety, committing a slew of unforced errors and double faults. Despite pulling one break back, Sabalenka’s inconsistency on serve and Siegemund’s relentless pressure saw the German take the first set 6-4, putting the top seed on the back foot.
The Fightback: Sabalenka Finds Her Game
Facing the prospect of an upset, Sabalenka regrouped in the second set. She began to play with more patience, constructing points carefully and waiting for the right moments to unleash her power. The Belarusian secured an early break and, capitalizing on Siegemund’s wavering serve, reeled off four consecutive games to take the set 6-2.
Sabalenka’s improved first-serve percentage and reduced risk-taking paid dividends, as she started to dictate play more effectively. Her signature aggression resurfaced, and she forced Siegemund into more defensive positions, gradually wearing down the veteran’s resistance.
A Tense Decider
The final set was a rollercoaster, with momentum swinging wildly between the two players. Siegemund struck first, breaking Sabalenka and moving ahead 3-1, tantalizingly close to the biggest singles win of her career. However, Sabalenka’s champion mentality shone through at the crucial moments. She broke back to level at 3-3, only for Siegemund to edge ahead once more at 4-3.
Refusing to yield, Sabalenka summoned her best tennis in the closing stages. She broke Siegemund’s serve in a tense eighth game, then held her own nerve to move ahead 5-4. With the pressure mounting, Sabalenka broke once more to seal the match, collapsing in relief and triumph as she booked her place in the semi-finals.
Post-Match Reactions
In her on-court interview, Sabalenka admitted the match had pushed her to her limits. “She pushed me so much,” Sabalenka said.
“After the first set, I was looking at my box and saying, ‘Book the tickets, we’re out of this place.’ But she played an incredible tournament. I’m so happy to win; the atmosphere was incredible. It’s a smart game—she makes everyone work against her, you have to work for every point”.
Siegemund, meanwhile, earned plaudits for her spirited performance. Despite falling short, her run to the quarter-finals at age 37—having already dispatched higher-ranked opponents like Madison Keys—was a testament to her enduring skill and tactical intelligence.
What’s Next for Sabalenka?
With this victory, Sabalenka advances to her third Wimbledon semi-final, matching her performances in 2021 and 2023. The Belarusian, already a three-time Grand Slam champion, remains in pursuit of her maiden Wimbledon title—the only major missing from her collection. She will next face either Amanda Anisimova or Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova for a place in the final.
Conclusion
Sabalenka’s victory over Siegemund was a showcase of mental fortitude and tactical adaptation. Overcoming a crafty opponent and her own frustrations, the world No. 1 proved once again why she is among the game’s elite. As she looks ahead to the semi-finals, Sabalenka stands just two wins away from completing her Grand Slam collection with a Wimbledon crown.