World Nob1 Aryna sabalenkab blamed a lack of focus and motivation for her last-16 defeat at the Dubai Championships, where she fell 6-3 6-2 to World No 38 Clara Tauson.
Sabalenka, who won the Qatar Open in 2020, suffered a second round round defeat to Ekaterina Alexandrova in Doha last week.
Three-time grand slam champion Sabalenka started her season with a title in Brisbane but has struggled for form after failing to win a third consecutive Australian open last month.
I’d say that for the last couple of years, I’m not doing well in the Middle East. I believe we need to change something in the preparation … because every time I don’t feel well playing here,” the 26-year-old Belarusian said after Wednesday’s match.
Even health-wise I’m struggling. Australia always taking a lot of energy out of me.
“I believe that I’m not that hungry on court. I’m kind of like all over the place in my thoughts and not consistent. The decisions I’m making on the court are a bit wrong and emotionally I’m not on my best.
The 22-year-old Dane broke Sabalenka’s serve six times to secure her first WTAÂ 1000 quarter-final spot. Her victory also served as payback for her third-round loss to Sabalenka at Melbourne Park
Last time, I had my chances, but I didn’t take them,” Tauson said. “Today I was really free in my mind. I knew she had to beat me and I’m the underdog all the way, and I was really enjoying my time out on the court.”