Aryna Sabalenka makes special request to Roger Federer after Australian Open win

Sabalenka opened her on-court interview by acknowledging the home crowd, who have supported her over the years: “Thank you for all the support, guys. I really enjoy playing in front of you.”

She then spoke about Rajaonah’s impressive showing: “I think I didn’t start my best, but she showed up, fired on, and she was playing great. It was a tricky start, and I’m super happy that I found my rhythm at the very end of the first set, and then I felt a bit more confident.

“But yeah, I didn’t know much about her. Of course, I watched her previous games but it’s always tricky to play against someone young, someone that you don’t really know yet and also a lefty. That was a tricky start for me but I’m super happy I was able to close this match in straight sets.”

When asked what it was like to play in front of Federer and Laver, Sabalenka responded with good humour: “Um, I’m a huge fan, guys. Can I take a picture with you please?”

“I got a little bit tight. I wanted to show great tennis so you guys enjoy watching me play. But, um, oh, my God, what a privilege. Thank you so much. I really hope you guys enjoyed at least a little bit.

“Yeah, that was definitely a lot of pressure.

“I was like, the whole match, I was, like, walking thinking, don’t watch, don’t look there, don’t look there.”

The topic then shifted towards Sabalenka’s hopes for another deep run in Melbourne – where she could reach a fourth straight final – prompting another playful moment from Sabalenka as she turned back to Federer: “Did you do it?”

The Belarusian star concluded: “You just love to throw the pressure on me, right?

“Yeah, you know, I’m trying to focus on myself, and if I’ll be able to do that, it’s gonna mean a lot to me, but I’m just trying to, you know, take it one step at a time, and I’m trying to bring my best.

“Every time I’m competing here in front of you all, I just want to enjoy.”

Aryna Sabalenka makes statement with strong Australian Open start

Sabalenka might not have hit top form straight away, but by the end of the match, she looked every bit the player who has made three straight finals in Melbourne.

She broke early and kept up the pressure, breaking down her opponent methodically in what was just Rajaonah’s second Grand Slam main draw appearance.

The first set was not perfect, but as the match went on, Sabalenka settled in. The way she finished will have caught the attention of everyone else in the draw.

And it is clear that there is still more to come from her as the tournament progresses.