Takeaways: Potapova, Sabalenka bury first-set frustrations to set up third round clash

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka overcame a challenging first set against Chinese qualifier Bai Zhuoxuan to advance to the third round of the Australian Open. Sabalenka's mental fortitude and powerful serves helped her secure a 6-3, 6-1 victory, extending her winning streak to 7-0 in 2026. Meanwhile, World No. 55 Anastasia Potapova defeated No. 28 seed Emma Raducanu, setting up a third-round clash with Sabalenka.