\n<\/p>\n
Sabalenka was the heavy favourite to beat unseeded American underdog Madison Keys and claim a third straight Melbourne title, but the instability of her second serve returned in a three-set defeat.<\/p>\n
At the French Open she played what she described as the “worst final” of her life, hitting 70 unforced errors in windy conditions.<\/p>\n
Her performance against Rybakina – who was bidding for a second major title after her 2022 Wimbledon win – was far from disastrous. <\/p>\n
In fact, there had been signs she was maintaining her composure until fifth seed Rybakina broke back in the deciding set.<\/p>\n
Out of nowhere, errors streamed from both wings as Sabalenka lost serve again for 4-3 and her focus further unravelled.<\/p>\n
At one point she dropped her racquet and kicked it across the court in frustration. <\/p>\n
Rybakina, meanwhile, remained ice-cool and served out with the aid of two aces for her second major title.<\/p>\n
Asked why she felt she lost momentum in the decider, Sabalenka said: “It was great tennis from her. Maybe not so smart for me.<\/p>\n
“Today I’m a loser, maybe tomorrow I’m a winner, maybe again a loser. Let’s see.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n