Sabalenka Dominates Kostyuk to Secure Third Brisbane Crown

BRISBANE: World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has successfully defended her Brisbane International title, defeating Marta Kostyuk 6-4, 6-3 in a hard-fought final on Sunday. The victory marks Sabalenka’s 22nd career title and her third victory at this specific tournament.

Sabalenka began the match with characteristic aggression, racing to a 3-0 lead within the first ten minutes. However, Kostyuk showed remarkable resilience, adjusting her rhythm to claw back to 3-2.

The first set reached a climax at 4-4, featuring a bizarre “frame-hit” point from Kostyuk. The Ukrainian fired a 176km/h serve followed by a powerful smash that appeared to be sailing out, only to clip the frame and land unexpectedly in play. Despite the “lucky” point for Kostyuk, Sabalenka maintained her composure to close out the set 6-4.

Aryna Sabalenka celebrates winning the first set.

The second set saw Sabalenka shift into a higher gear. While Kostyuk continued to fight, hitting the scoreboard twice before the hour mark, she could not find a way through the defending champion’s defense. Sabalenka’s serve and court coverage proved too much for the Ukrainian star, ending the match in straight sets.

“She is hanging in there, she is not giving up,” Australian tennis great Jelena Dokic noted during the broadcast, praising Kostyuk’s tenacity. However, lead commentator Tom Rehn noted that Sabalenka’s form was simply too consistent for an upset.

The victory serves as a perfect warm-up for the Australian summer of tennis. Fans can look forward to more top-tier action at the 2026 United Cup, beginning Friday, January 2.

Sabalenka heads into the next stage of the season with momentum and a clear message to her rivals: she is currently the most formidable force in the women’s game.