Aryna Sabalenka Wins Australian Open Opener Amid Presence of Federer and Laver

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka began her 2026 Australian Open campaign with a 6-4, 6-1 win over French wildcard Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah. Playing in front of tennis legends Roger Federer and Rod Laver, Sabalenka admitted feeling added pressure and struggled early before regaining composure. After the match, she expressed admiration for the two greats and requested a photo with them, describing their presence as a privilege that motivated her performance.