Aryna Sabalenka says how she feels about having to face Emma Raducanu again in Cincinnati so soon after Wimbledon

Aryna Sabalenka made her way into the second round of the Cincinnati Open after defeating Marketa Vondrousova in straight sets.

In her first match of the North American hard-court swing, Sabalenka beat the former Wimbledon champion 7-5, 6-1 to kick off her title defence.

She will face Emma Raducanu in the next round, who she overcame at the All England Club earlier this summer en route to the semifinals.

Ahead of her clash with the Briton, Sabalenka reflected on the rivalry the two stars have had on the WTA Tour so far.

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Aryna Sabalenka reflects on rivalry with Emma Raducanu

Speaking to Tennis Channel after her win, she said of Raducanu: “We had a great battle at Wimbledon.

“She is an amazing player, and she has been playing really well lately. I am super excited to face her on hard courts.

“I don’t remember our match at Indian Wells, but I think now she is playing much better. It’s going to be a challenge, and I love to accept tough challenges.

“So I am super excited to face her. I will definitely have to work really hard for every point.

“But Marketa tested me really well today, so I am ready to fight for each point.”

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Aryna Sabalenka’s undefeated record against Emma Raducanu

Sabalenka and Raducanu first played each other at Indian Wells in 2024, when they met in the round of 32.

The Belarusian, who was the second seed at the event that year, beat her 6-3, 7-5, before losing in the next round to Emma Navarro.

Their second and most recent bout came at Wimbledon this year, where Raducanu looked to advance to the fourth round in front of a home crowd.

Despite forcing Sabalenka to a first-set tiebreak, ultimately the three-time major champion came out on top.

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