By using this website you agree that we use cookies. You can find out more in the privacy policy.

The National Times - Sabalenka sets up Wimbledon third-round clash with Ostapenko

Sabalenka sets up Wimbledon third-round clash with Ostapenko

SPORTS 01.07.2026
Sabalenka sets up Wimbledon third-round clash with Ostapenko
Sabalenka sets up Wimbledon third-round clash with Ostapenko / Photo: © AFP

World number one Aryna Sabalenka battled through a tough second set against American McCartney Kessler to reach the Wimbledon third round on Wednesday.

Change text size:

The four-time Grand Slam champion, who has reached 14 successive major quarter-finals, won 6-1, 7-6 (11/9) on Court One to secure a last-32 meeting with former French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko.

"That was a true battle and I'm super happy that I was able to stay in that second set to get into that tie-break," said Sabalenka.

"She really tested me and I'm super happy to pass the test."

Sabalenka has never won Wimbledon, losing in the semi-finals on each of her past three visits.

Kessler missed two set points when serving for the second set at 5-3 ahead, before Sabalenka fought back and took a tie-break, in which her 57th-ranked opponent saw another two set points come and go.

D.Kelly--TNT

Featured

Sinner sinks Borges to step up Wimbledon title defence

Jannik Sinner moved into the Wimbledon third round as the defending champion held his nerve in a pair of tie-breaks to beat Portugal's Nuno Borges on Wednesday.

All-white and lavender: Wimbledon hunts drought-resistant flowers

London's Wimbledon tennis championships could swap out hydrangeas for drought-resistant flowers like lavender as a result of climate change, the head horticulturalist at the Grand Slam said on Wednesday.

Thomas targets yellow in Tour team time-trial

Former Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas said on Wednesday that his Netcompany Ineos team would be targeting the first yellow jersey of the Grand Boucle in Saturday's opening team time-trial.

Inter Milan laud veteran Mkhitaryan after deal extension

Inter Milan's Armenian international midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan has extended his stay with the Italian champions by a further season, the club said on Wednesday.

Change text size: