Aryna Sabalenka says she did something she may never do again in her match vs Elina Svitolina in Rome

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Aryna Sabalenka showcased her talent in yesterday’s win over Elina Svitolina at the Italian Open to reach the last eight.

The Belarussian star won the Australian Open in January and she’s now got her sights set on the French Open in a few weeks.

Sabalenka won a gruelling encounter 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 to set up a tie with Jelena Ostapenko tomorrow.

There was something that Sabalenka did in her latest win that came as a bit of a surprise – and it’s not something she’s keen to make a habit of.

• READ MORE: Aryna Sabalenka found something incredible during her latest match

Aryna Sabalenka did something at Italian Open she may never do again

The 26-year-old came from the brink of defeat to knock her Ukrainian opponent out yesterday.

Sabalenka saved three match points to prevail and she did so with an unbelievable array of drop shots.

The player is not renowned for playing the game using that style of play – and after the game, she discussed her playing style on X.

She reposted a video showcasing a number of brilliant shots and said: “Probably the first and the last time in my life.”

Sabalenka also included a laughing emoji on the post and it’s clear she’s not keen to adopt the style on a more frequent basis.

Sabalenka becoming a superb all-round player and will fancy French Open tilt

The player is currently the second-best player in world tennis according to the rankings.

Sabalenka will, however, be one of the players to beat at Roland Garros in a few weeks when things get underway.

The player will be keen to win a few more matches and claim the Italian Open title as she bids to prepare in the best possible fashion.

Sabalenka’s best performance in Paris came in 2019 when she was beaten in the semi-finals and this time she will want to go further.

Great champions typically have to adapt to a number of different situations and Sabalenka showcased yesterday that she’s capable of doing just that.

The two-time Grand Slam champion might not be turning into a drop shot expert just yet but it’s great that she’s proven that she can win in this fashion.