Aryna Sabalenka wins Shenzhen Open

Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka gave herself a massive confidence boost ahead of the Australian Open by winning the Shenzhen Open final on Saturday.

Sabalenka captured her first title of 2019 with a fine comeback win against Alison Riske 4-6 7-6 (7-2) 6-3. Last year, the Belarusian won titles at Wuhan and New Haven.

"To start the season with a title, it gives you more belief in yourself, and hopefully I can do well at the Australian Open," Sabalenka said.

"It was a tough day for us, especially to come back after the first set. She was putting everything in, down the lines - I'm so happy that I found a way how to win."

The Australian Open starts on Monday, January 14.

Belarus President Aliaksandr Lukashenka has congratulated Aryna Sabalenka with the victory.

Lift that 🏆 , @SabalenkaA !

You're the @ShenzhenOpenWTA champion!#ShenzhenOpen pic.twitter.com/Hi9Nxjl7Xv

— WTA (@WTA) January 5, 2019

"This backhand down the line - you need to teach me how to do this!"

Champion @SabalenkaA gives credit to @Riske4rewards after a tough day for both of them, pulling double-duty at @ShenzhenOpenWTA !#ShenzhenOpen pic.twitter.com/lMDB02lKlz

— WTA (@WTA) January 5, 2019

"Even though I have no-one here with me this week, I feel like I have a ton of support - which is special."@riske4rewards always feels at home at @ShenzhenOpenWTA !#ShenzhenOpen pic.twitter.com/RjnXTGHZKk

— WTA (@WTA) January 5, 2019

That's the title for @sabalenkaA !

Gets 2019 off to the best start with the @ShenzhenOpenWTA title!

Beats Riske 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-3!#ShenzhenOpen pic.twitter.com/RfjZGHbyb1

— WTA (@WTA) January 5, 2019

This. Is. Incredible.

Riske and Sabalenka giving it everything!#ShenzhenOpen pic.twitter.com/WGYvHPfkuj

— WTA (@WTA) January 5, 2019