WATCH: Aryna Sabalenka shows off goofy dance moves in impromptu Australian Open celebration after Sloane Stephens win

Aryna Sabalenka pulled out some goofy dance moves to entertain the crowd at the 2025 Australian Open after defeating Sloane Stephens in the first round. The Belarusian impressively began her title defense with a straight-sets win (6-3, 6-2) over the World No. 81.

On Sunday, Sabalenka began her quest for a third consecutive Australian Open title on Rod Laver Arena during the night session. Ahead of the match, she acknowledged the potential challenge of Stephens' "nothing to lose" mindset, stemming from the American's recent struggles.

In a battle of Grand Slam champions, Sabalenka wasted no time, racing to a 3-0 lead. Although Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, fought back to make it 3-4, Sabalenka's relentless returns helped her bag the first set 6-3.

The second set was even more straightforward for the World No. 1, as she won it 6-2 to advance. She converted five of 13 break-point opportunities and sealed her victory with 20 winners.

During her post-match on-court interview, Sabalenka was reminded of her playful "tradition" in Australia—posting dance routines with her team. Presenter Jelena Dokic joked about her dance videos often being filmed on empty courts, hinting at a live performance.

Catching on, Sabalenka laughed and agreed to dance but the crowd had to join her. Embracing the moment, Sabalenka showcased some goofy moves, with Dokic joining in, to the delight of the lively Rod Laver Arena audience.

Watch Aryna Sabalenka's dance moves below:

After the dance, Sabalenka joked:

"Now they have proof that I’m the worst dancer"

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Aryna Sabalenka reflects on not playing her "best" but coming out with a win in her Australian Open 2025 1R against Sloane Stephens

Aryna Sabalenka at the 2025 Australian Open - Day 1 - Source: Getty

During her post-match interview, Aryna Sabalenka claimed her campaign opener in Melbourne was a "tough match" and she was not at her best.

"It was a tough match always tough matches against her and I'm not like I played my best probably but I'm glad that I was able to close this match in straight sets," Sabalenka said.

Sabalenka now holds an exceptional 28-1 record at hard-court Grand Slam events since 2023, winning the Australian Open in 2023 and 2024 and the US Open in September 2024. Her only loss came to Coco Gauff in the 2023 US Open final.

In Melbourne this year, Sabalenka is chasing a historic hat-trick of Australian Open titles. She will become only the sixth woman in the Open Era to achieve the feat. Her next hurdle is a second-round clash against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro, who defeated Sonay Kartal 6-1, 7-6 (7) in the first round.