Aryna Sabalenka secured a place in the quarterfinals of Wimbledon on Sunday without dropping a set. The world number one won against the Belgian Elise Mertens: 6-4 and 7-6 (4).
For Sabalenka and Mertens, the encounter on center court was special. The two formed a successful duo in doubles for years. Together they won the US Open and the Australian Open, among others.
In recent singles encounters between the two, Sabalenka always had the upper hand. That was no different on the grass of Wimbledon. The Belarusian was made difficult at times, but Mertens failed to force a third set.
Sabalenka has not had to concede a set in this tournament. She was already considered the big favorite for the final victory in advance and saw many competitors lose early in the tournament. Among others, Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula have already been eliminated.
Sabalenka will face Laura Siegemund in the quarterfinals. The German was too strong for the Argentinian Solana Sierra in two sets in her fourth round match.