Rare Incident at Australian Open: Sabalenka Penalized for Shouting but Advances to Final

On January 29, the Australian Open women’s singles semifinals delivered drama. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka faced No. 12 Elina Svitolina. Sabalenka won in straight sets, securing her fourth consecutive Australian Open final appearance.

A rare moment occurred in the first set, fourth game: Sabalenka was penalized a point for her trademark grunt, deemed a hindrance while Svitolina was serving. At the time, Sabalenka led 2-1, leaving both players momentarily stunned.

Video review confirmed the decision: Sabalenka’s grunt was not only present during her shot but continued into her opponent’s court, sufficiently interfering with play. The point penalty was upheld.

The incident did not derail Sabalenka. She broke Svitolina’s serve in the fourth game, again in the eighth game, and took the first set 6-2. Riding the momentum, she claimed the second set 6-3, advancing smoothly to the final.