LONDON - Top seed Aryna Sabalenka channeled her survival instincts to defeat American McCartney Kessler 6-1, 7-6(9) in a dramatic second-round match at Wimbledon.
The Belarusian, a known 'Rocky' fan, was dominant in the first set but faced a fierce fight in the second. Kessler, who hadn't dropped a game in the tournament, surged to a 5-2 lead and held multiple set points.
Sabalenka's powerful hitting and experience proved decisive. She saved those set points and ultimately won the tiebreak, extending her record streak to 21 consecutive tiebreak victories.
"It was a truly great fight... she really tested me today," Sabalenka said. "I'm super happy to pass the test."
Her next opponent is Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko for a spot in the Round of 16.