Aryna Sabalenka knocks out Elise Mertens in round 3 of Australian Open

By Selcuk Bugra Gokalp

ANKARA (AA) - Aryna Sabalenka on Saturday eliminated Elise Mertens in the women's singles round 3 at the 2023 Australian Open.

The 24-year-old world No. 5 beat her former Australian Open-winning doubles partner from Belgium 6-2, 6-3 at Melbourne Park.

“It's really tough to play against her. She's a great player, an unbelievable fighter," Sabalenka said about Mertens.

"I knew it was going to be tough. Super happy I was able to stay focused from the beginning to the end, so I could win this match, but she's an amazing player," she added.

Sabalenka, who will take on the Swiss Olympic champion Belinda Bencic in round 4, is looking to reach her maiden quarterfinal round in Australian Open.