Can Sabalenka regain her top form in Cincinnati?

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Aryna Sabalenka Aims to Reignite Form at Cincinnati Masters

Aryna Sabalenka, the top seed at the Cincinnati Masters 1000 event, is seeking to recapture her elite performance level. Her preparation includes a deliberate break from the sport to refresh and refocus, aiming to approach the tournament with a renewed competitive spirit and a lack of fear. Sabalenka has a history of success in Cincinnati, having won the title two years prior, a victory that preceded her maiden Grand Slam triumph at the US Open.
Past Success and Recent Struggles

Sabalenka's previous triumph in Cincinnati two years ago served as a significant stepping stone, directly leading to her first US Open title. This historical performance underscores her capability on hard court surfaces, where she has secured all four of her Grand Slam championships. However, the current 2026 season has not mirrored her established world-class standards, yielding three titles overall but no victories since the Miami Open in the spring. Her recent results include a fourth-round exit in Toronto last week and a similar outcome at Wimbledon, indicating a dip in her typically dominant form.
Strategic Break and Mental Refresh

Seeking to overcome her recent challenges, Sabalenka consciously took a period away from tennis. This hiatus, spent in Mykonos with her fiancé and their dog, was intended to provide a comprehensive refresh and reset. She articulated a desire to "stay away from tennis for a little bit so I could refresh, restart and be hungry again," suggesting a deliberate effort to regain her competitive drive and mental edge. This period of detachment from the sport was aimed at fostering a more positive and present-focused mindset for the upcoming tournaments.
Tournament Outlook and Goals

As the top seed, Sabalenka benefits from a first-round bye at the Cincinnati tournament. She is scheduled to commence her campaign in the second round, facing either Australia's Talia Gibson or a qualifier. Her stated objectives for the event are straightforward: to "compete, fight and enjoy," emphasizing a desire to play without apprehension. Sabalenka has acknowledged that recent physical issues and circumstances beyond her control have hindered her performance, but she aims to focus on the present and execute her game plan effectively. Her career record in Cincinnati stands at a strong 21 wins and 7 losses.

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Can Sabalenka regain her top form in Cincinnati?

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