Aryna Sabalenka defeated 48th-ranked Czech Marie Bouzkova with 7–6 (7–4), 6–4.
The Belarusian world number one received tough resistance but unlike second-seeded Coco Gauff, third-seeded Jessica Pegula and fifth-seeded Zheng Qinwen, she made sure to win and stay in the tournament.
”Is sad”
Sabalenka about the recent star falls:
Honestly, it's sad that so many top players were eliminated in the first round, but the most important thing is to focus on yourself and stay away from the other results. Of course, you are aware of what's happening, but it's better to take one step at a time and do your best all the time, says Sabalenka.
In the third round, 2021 US Open winner Emma Raducanu or former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova awaits Sabalenka.
The 27-year-old world number one and three-time Grand Slam winner has never gone past the semifinal in Wimbledon and has previously this year lost the finals in both the Australian Open and the French Championships.
20th in a row for Alcaraz
In the men's singles, world number two Carlos Alcaraz, Spain, advanced to the third round after winning in three straight sets against home player Oliver Tarvet, 6–1, 6–4, 6–4.
The home crowd did what they could to lift the British qualifier, but Alcaraz is in great shape and took his 20th straight win, including the seven that took him to another title in the French Championships recently.
I know it's not personal, I'm glad about the support I get here in Wimbledon. It wasn't easy today, but the crowd treated me respectfully, he says.
