Aryna Sabalenka wins Brisbane International semis after epic battle with Mirra Andreeva

Tennis star Aryna Sabalenka defeated Mirra Andreeva by 6-3, 6-2 in the semifinal thriller of the 2025 Brisbane International on January 4. The world number one has successfully placed herself in the final thriller of the showpiece event. The 26-year-old tennis star showcased her stellar form and posed a big threat to her opponents ahead of the Australian Open 2025, slated to take place on January 12 in Melbourne. She is now set to face Polina Kudermetova in the final thriller, who has toppled Anhelina Kalinina in another match and aims to win the title to boost the preparation for the first Grand Slam of the year. The Belarusian ended her journey as the runner-up during the last year but she aims to grab the title this time.

At the 2024 Brisbane International, Sabalenka made it to the final thriller but lost to world number six Elena Rybakina in straight sets. Looking to improve upon this as compared to last year, the 26-year-old said that she felt fresh and ready to go this time. Notably, during her off-season, Sabalenka spent her time at her home in Florida before making her way to the Middle East for the pre-training season.

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Aryna Sabalenka vs Mirra Andreeva head-to-head:

Sabalenka currently leads 2-1 in the head-to-head against Andreeva. Their last encounter came in the quarterfinals of last year's French Open, with the Russian teenager coming back from a set down to win 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-4 and reach her maiden Grand Slam semifinal.

We’ve had great battles in the past: Mirra Andreeva

Meanwhile, Mirra Andreeva has lauded Aryna Sabalenka ahead of their semi-final thriller and talked about their battles in the game.

“She’s a great player. We played an exhibition in Abu Dhabi. So I got to know her a little bit better. She’s a nice person and a great player. We’ve had great battles in the past. I’m really looking forward to facing her tomorrow," the No. 1 seed said of the Andreeva match.