In her first match since reaching the US Open semi-finals and subsequently testing positive for COVID-19, Aryna Sabalenka beat Ajla Tomljanovic 7-6 (2), 4-6, 6-1 to reach the quarter-finals of the Kremlin Cup.

The No 2-ranked Sabalenka, who had a bye in the first round here, served 10 aces, but also made 30 unforced errors. “She’s a tough opponent for the first match after a long time out,” Sabalenka said.