Rivals primed for an ambush as Sabalenka returns to the Tour

Double Australian Open winner Aryna Sabalenka returns to the courts three weeks after collecting her second Melbourne title, with hot rivals Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina and Coco Gauff lying in wait at the WTA Dubai event.

Sabalenka took her rest time seriously, skipping last week’s date in Doha, won for the third straight edition by world No. 1 Swiatek over Rybakina.

But Sabalenka confirmed on Sunday that she’s primed for action after her post-Grand Slam pause.

The second seed in the emirate will start after a bye against Croat Donna Vekic.

“It’s been an amazing time,” she said. “I’m still shocked I was able to win back-to-back Australian Opens. 

“It’s a dream. I couldn’t even dream about that.”

The seed added: “I’m still emotional about my win, It’s the best thing you can ever, ever get. 

“But it’s already in the past and I need to focus on the next one.”

Sabalenka has competed at Dubai’s Aviation club seven times without getting past the quarter-finals.

“I’m addicted to wins, it’s just something in my blood and I keep doing, keep working, and hopefully keep winning,” she said.

“I’m happy to see the top players constantly winning the titles,” Sabalenka said.

“That’s something women’s tennis was missing. It’s not like you know another top player is going to drop and you’re waiting for them to fail and see.

“I’m happy to see this consistency. I hope I can continue what I’m doing and I’m not going to be the top player that drops the level.”

Main photo:- Aryna Sabalenka with 2024 Australian Open Trophy – ISF Ltd