The world number one defeated Paula Badosa in her semi-final in Melbourne on Thursday (23.01.25) to put herself on the brink of a third straight title Down Under and admits that it would be special to join a list that includes Steffi Graf and Martina Hingis by completing the hat-trick.

Sabalenka said: "Just saying [those previous champions’ names] gives me goosebumps.

"I’m so proud of myself that I was able to put myself in such a situation; it’s a privilege.

"If I am able to put my name in history, it’s going to mean a lot, the world for me. It’s been a dream; I couldn’t even dream about that.

"At first I was dreaming of winning at least one Grand Slam, but now I have this opportunity. It’s incredible. I’m going to go out and leave everything I have in the final."

The Belarusian beat her friend in straight sets but was surprised at her powers of recovery after her Spanish opponent made a strong start to the match.

Sabalenka said: "I have no idea [how I turned it around].

"I was just trying to build for the next games, I wasn’t trying to win that game [on its own]. Somehow I was able to turn the game around - that crucial game - in a super tough match against a friend.

"I’m super happy to see her at her highest level. It was a tough battle, and I’m super happy to be through this difficult match."

Sabalenka admits that it was difficult to be playing against a close pal but stressed that both players know the importance of victory on the court.

The three-time Grand Slam winner said: "After a couple of battles against each other, we spoke and decided to put it aside.

"Here, she wanted it badly. We both want it badly. It’s our dream. But here, we’re just opponents, no matter what happens on and off the court.

"We are going to be friends after our matches. It’s tough to do, but we agreed on that. We’re doing it pretty well. I hope she’s still my friend."