Top seed Aryna Sabalenka rallied from a second-set deficit to defeat McCartney Kessler 6-1, 7-6(9) in the second round at Wimbledon on Wednesday.
Sabalenka saved four set points and came back from 5-2 down in the second set to secure a straight-sets victory in London.
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Record Tiebreak Streak Continues
The win marked Sabalenka's 21st consecutive tiebreak victory at Grand Slam level, extending her Open Era record.
Her 2026 tiebreak record now stands at 9-2.
Sabalenka acknowledged the challenge posed by Kessler, who pushed her to the limit.
"Incredible level in the second set from her," said Sabalenka.
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"She really tested me today, and I'm really happy to pass the test. She really stepped in, she played super aggressive.
It felt like whatever decisions she would make, it would work for her," she added.
The World No. 1 advances to face former Roland Garros champion Jelena Ostapenko in the third round.
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Ostapenko defeated Antonia Ruzic 6-2, 6-0 in 66 minutes, bouncing back from a three-set opener against Harriet Dart.
