Sabalenka dominates Toronto debut and reaffirms status as the overwhelming favorite
The world No. 1 began her campaign in Canada with a dominant performance. Her first challenge ended without major complications and sent an important message ahead of the decisive rounds.
A debut with no room for surprises
Aryna Sabalenka began her campaign at the 2026 Toronto WTA 1000 by demonstrating why she is considered one of the leading contenders to win the title.
The world No. 1 defeated Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima 6-3, 6-3 to secure her place in the third round of the Canadian tournament.
The Belarusian needed one hour and 21 minutes to close out the match in straight sets and move into the final 32 of the competition.
Experience makes the difference
Uchijima, ranked outside the world’s top 100, entered the match after defeating Spain’s Cristina Bucsa in the opening round.
However, the Japanese player was unable to find a consistent response to the overwhelming favorite’s power and depth of shot.
Sabalenka remained in control during the key moments of both sets and prevented her opponent from seriously threatening to extend the match.
A season filled with high expectations
The Belarusian won the Indian Wells and Miami WTA 1000 titles in 2026, in addition to lifting the trophy at the Brisbane tournament.
Her participation in Toronto is also part of her hard-court preparation ahead of the US Open, the final Grand Slam tournament of the season.
The next obstacle in her path
Sabalenka will face China’s Shuai Zhang in the third round after she advanced following Jelena Ostapenko’s retirement.
The Latvian withdrew while Zhang was leading 6-0, 4-0, meaning the Chinese player will enter her next match after a brief but commanding performance.
Sabalenka will attempt to maintain the level she displayed in her opening match and continue progressing in a tournament that represents an important opportunity to reinforce her status as the favorite ahead of the US Open.
