MELBOURNE, Australia — Aryna Sabalenka continued her charge towards a third-straight Australian Open title by overwhelming her “soulmate” Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2 in Thursday evening’s semifinal.

Aryna Sabalenka moved one win away from becoming the first woman since 1999 to win three consecutive Australian Open titles, recovering from a slow start to beat good friend Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2 Thursday night to return to the final.

Paula Badosa joked that Aryna Sabalenka produced 'PlayStation' tennis during their semi-final clash at the Australian Open 2025 on Thursday, January 23. Sabalenka reached her 3rd consecutive final by beating Badosa in straight sets.