Aryna Sabalenka Triumphs Under Sweltering Conditions at Wimbledon

On a blistering Wimbledon day, top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka made a powerful start by defeating Canadian qualifier Carson Branstine with a 6-1, 7-5 victory on Court One.

Sabalenka, who withdrew last year due to injury, returned with a vengeance, dominating the first five games. Despite Branstine's strong service in the second set, Sabalenka demonstrated her tactical prowess by seizing the decisive break at 5-5.

A three-time Grand Slam champion, Sabalenka expressed delight at returning healthy, prepared to overcome previous year's setbacks and eyeing the title with her tenacious performance in the tournament's opening match.

(With inputs from agencies.)