MONTREAL (AFP) - Aryna Sabalenka won a battle of Belarus on Friday (Aug 13), denying compatriot Victoria Azarenka the chance to return to the top 10 with a 6-2, 6-4 victory at the WTA Montreal Masters.

Azaranka, a 32-year-old with two Australian Open titles to her credit, last ranked in the elite group five years ago before motherhood.