Aryna Sabalenka has produced a consistency at the Grand Slam tournaments which is unrivalled in the women’s game.
With a powerful style translating across court surfaces, the world number one has made 12 semi-final appearances in her past 13 major tournaments – with the latest coming when she faces Jessica Pegula at the US Open on Thursday.
But here’s the kicker – Sabalenka’s tendency to combust at a critical juncture means only three of those have resulted in titles.
None of the 27-year-old Belarusian’s runs at this year’s majors have ended with the trophy.
In the Australian Open final, French Open final and Wimbledon semi-finals, an erratic level has led to devastating defeats.
Sabalenka’s last major trophy came when she beat Pegula in the New York final 12 months ago and, in a bid to get over the line again, she has brought 10-time doubles Grand Slam champion Max Mirnyi into her team.
“Everything fluctuates in life,” Mirnyi, speaking after Sabalenka’s practice at Flushing Meadows on Wednesday, told BBC Sport.
“We’re not machines, we’re not robots, right? As good as some of the professionals are in their fields, they’re still human.
“It comes down to being good, but not always perfect. A tennis match is very tough to make perfect.
“But it’s OK – she’s getting to the latter stages of Slams consistently, which makes us believe she is putting herself in the position time and time again to win it.”
