Aryna Sabalenka is into yet another Roland Garros quarter-final, having impressively dismantled Naomi Osaka in straight sets earlier tonight.
Whilst this was a heavyweight clash between two elite-level superstars, the dominant narrative surrounded when this match had been played.
After all, it marked the first women’s night session showdown this year, and just a fifth in five years.
Aryna Sabalenka was clearly aware of how historic their selection to play on Philippe Chatrier was tonight, and referenced it when speaking in her on-court interview after beating Naomi Osaka.
Aryna Sabalenka shares how she feels about playing the night session
Sabalenka began by speaking glowingly about her opponent, praising the Japanese star as she claimed: “She is such a great player.
“It’s always really tough battles with her. Super aggressive tennis. I am mostly happy with the way I served, and I was able to put all that pressure back on her. I am happy with the win. It was amazing to play in the night session in front of you guys.”
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Then, referencing the night session, she continued: “It was my first one, and I really want to keep going, but who knows? Thank you so much for bringing such an amazing atmosphere; you guys really make this place so special.”
Sabalenka concluded by discussing her serve, and just how much it has improved: “I am super happy with my serve.
“I did not expect to be serving that great. It’s probably not the greatest service game I have ever played in my life, but in this tournament for sure I feel like I am getting better and better with every match I am playing and I am super pleased with my performance today.”
The fact that Osaka said she didn’t even associate women’s matches with the night session emphasises just how important tonight’s match was for the WTA Tour.
Aryna Sabalenka looks on track for the Roland Garros title amongst the chaos
After what has been a hugely chaotic first week at Roland Garros, Sabalenka remains a steady, calming presence.
She is the most reliable player on the WTA Tour and the world number one for a reason, and whilst her other top seeds have fallen unexpectedly, she continues winning.
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Osaka played well tonight, but even she was not enough to really trouble Sabalenka all that much.
Meanwhile, the Belarusian blended her patented power with deft touches to perfectly dismantle her opponent.
With no Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, Iga Swiatek or Jessica Pegula present in the draw, Sabalenka is the overwhelming favourite for this title. It feels like nobody can stop her.
