World top-ranked Sabalenka Wins Opening Singles Match at Brisbane International

Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka hits a return against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua during their women’s singles match at the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane on December 31, 2024. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP)
Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka hits a return against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua during their women’s singles match at the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane on December 31, 2024. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP)
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World top-ranked Sabalenka Wins Opening Singles Match at Brisbane International

Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka hits a return against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua during their women’s singles match at the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane on December 31, 2024. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP)
Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka hits a return against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua during their women’s singles match at the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane on December 31, 2024. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP)

World No. 1-ranked Aryna Sabalenka has started her Brisbane International singles campaign with a 6-4, 6-0 win Tuesday over Renata Zarazua of Mexico.
The match was a prelude on Pat Rafter Arena for later men's matches involving Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic. Kyrgios was playing up-and-coming French talent Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, while Djokovic began his singles tournament against Australian wild-card entry Rinky Hijikata.
On Monday, Djokovic and Kyrgios won their first-round doubles match.
In an early men's singles match Tuesday, Frances Tiafoe beat Australian wild-card entry Adam Walton 7-5 (5), 6-3.
Earlier Tuesday, tournament No. 5 seed and world No.22 Sebastian Korda withdrew with a lower back injury.



Dakar Rally Saudi Arabia 2025 Kicks Off with Over 800 Competitors

Over 800 participants are poised for the fierce competition, which runs until January 17. SPA
Over 800 participants are poised for the fierce competition, which runs until January 17. SPA
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Dakar Rally Saudi Arabia 2025 Kicks Off with Over 800 Competitors

Over 800 participants are poised for the fierce competition, which runs until January 17. SPA
Over 800 participants are poised for the fierce competition, which runs until January 17. SPA

The Dakar Rally 2025, the largest and longest race in the world of motorsports, is set to kick off on Friday from Bisha, marking the sixth consecutive year the Kingdom hosts this thrilling event.
Over 800 participants are poised for the fierce competition, which runs until January 17 and is organized by the Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) and supervised by the Ministry of Sport.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, emphasized that hosting the rally for the sixth consecutive time showcases the Kingdom's capabilities in organizing major sporting events.
He praised the Saudi leadership's unwavering support and highlighted the sports sector's commitment to implementing various programs and initiatives aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
The minister said this year's rally features a diverse array of stages, with competitors facing off over a total distance of 7,737 km, including 5,129 km of special stages starting in Bisha. Participants will embark on an adventurous journey through the landscapes of Al Hanakiyah, AlUla, Hail, Al Dawadmi, Riyadh, and Haradh before heading to the last stop in Shubaytah.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki extends a warm welcome to all participants, wishing them success and an unforgettable experience in the Kingdom's stunning scenery and vibrant nature.