Leylah Fernandez wins her first Australian Open title, while Sabalenka finishes runner-up for the second consecutive year.

On January 31st, at Rod Laver Arena, the Australian Open women's singles final unfolded with 26-year-old Kazakh star Leylah Fernandez staging a stunning comeback from a 0-3 deficit in the deciding set. She defeated world No.1 Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 to claim her first Australian Open trophy and avenge her loss in the same venue three years ago.

This was a clash of contrasting styles. Fernandez was like a calm glacier, while Sabalenka resembled a blazing flame.

In the first set, Fernandez took the initiative with an early break and powerful serving. Her first serve averaged 195 km/h with precise placement, making it difficult for the aggressive Sabalenka to find openings. Fernandez won the set 6-4.

In the second set, Sabalenka adjusted her tactics by increasing net pressure and varying shot placement, leveling the match with another 6-4. The contest moved into a decisive final set, with tension soaring.

The first three games of the final set seemed to favor Sabalenka completely. Fernandez’s unforced errors increased, and Sabalenka secured a 3-0 lead with breaks and holds. Most spectators thought the world No.1 would close out the match smoothly.

However, the true champion’s spirit emerged at this critical moment.Despite trailing 0-3, Fernandez remained calm and composed. She controlled her breathing and regained the serving form from the first set. Meanwhile, she increased topspin in baseline rallies, patiently engaging Sabalenka and waiting for her opponent’s mistakes.

This tactical shift paid off immediately. Sabalenka’s attacks became slightly rushed after leading, leading to more unforced errors. Fernandez broke back and held serve repeatedly, miraculously leveling the score at 3-3.Although Sabalenka held serve in the ninth game, Fernandez gave her no chance in the tenth, sealing the set 6-4. After winning, Fernandez stayed composed, only clenching her fist in celebration, while Sabalenka struggled to hide her disappointment.

At the trophy ceremony, Fernandez said, “I’m finding it hard to find the right words. I want to congratulate Sabalenka on her incredible achievements over the past two years. I know it’s not easy, and I hope we can meet in many more finals in the future. Congratulations to your team for all the progress you’ve made. You’ve done amazing!”

This victory made Fernandez the third Asian female champion in Australian Open history, following Li Na (2014) and Naomi Osaka (2019, 2021), bringing the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup back to Asia. It was also her second Grand Slam title after winning Wimbledon in 2022, raising her career total to 12 titles, including two Grand Slams and one WTA Finals championship.

Fernandez’s performance at this Australian Open was dominant. She reached the final without dropping a set, defeating three top-10 players: world No.2 Swiatek in the quarterfinals and narrowly beating Pegula in the semifinals. Since winning the 2025 WTA Finals, she has recorded 10 consecutive victories against top-10 opponents, currently at peak form.

For Sabalenka, this defeat is undoubtedly a heavy blow. It marked her fourth consecutive Australian Open final appearance but second consecutive runner-up finish—losing to Keys in 2025 and Fernandez in 2026. Although her world No.1 ranking remains intact, her dominance on hard-court Grand Slams is now being challenged.

“Elena played unbelievably today, especially her serving,” Sabalenka said after the match. “I’m disappointed, but that’s tennis. I will come back, I promise.”

With this win, Fernandez earned 2000 ranking points, rising to a career-high world No.3, and took home AUD 4.15 million (approximately RMB 19.3 million) in prize money. More importantly, she proved she is not only a grass-court specialist but also capable of winning on hard courts.

For women’s tennis, this final signals a new era of competition. Matches between Fernandez, Sabalenka, Swiatek, Gauff, and other top players will define the coming years. The Kazakh star, known for her composure, strong mental resilience, and excellent serving skills, has undoubtedly established herself as one of the most formidable forces in contemporary women’s tennis.

As Fernandez lifted the championship trophy, Melbourne’s night sky sparkled for her. From the bitterness of losing the final three years ago to the joy of triumph today; from her breakthrough Wimbledon title to this new Australian Open glory—this “Ice Beauty” is writing a fresh chapter in tennis history.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Mei)