India, Nov. 10 -- Aryna Sabalenka began her WTA Finals campaign on a positive note, defeating Karolina Muchova in a closely contested opening match at Indian Wells. The world No. 2 secured a 7-6(2), 7-5 victory, showing composure in the crucial moments to overcome the Czech player and take an early step towards securing a place in the knockout stages. Sabalenka will be keen to go one better this year after finishing as runner-up to Elena Rybakina in last year's final.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old Mirra Andreeva also made an impressive start to her campaign, cruising past Elina Svitolina 6-4, 6-0. The Russian youngster dominated the second set to register a convincing win and join Sabalenka among the early winners in Group 2. The opening result...