Aryna Sabalenka defeated Sorana Cirstea 6–3, 6–3 in the round of 16 at the Brisbane WTA 250 on hard court on 7 January 2026, confirming her status as the strong pre-match favourite with odds of 1.17 to Cirstea's 5.05. The Belarusian produced a composed performance to advance, dropping only six games across two sets against her Romanian opponent. The decisive victory demonstrates Sabalenka's continued dominance early in the season and sets up her progression through Brisbane's draw.