By Shrivathsa Sridhar MELBOURNE (Reuters) -Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka overcame a wobbly display to reach the Australian Open fourth round while Carlos Alcaraz was at his dazzling best despite a blip as warm and windy weather tested the composure of players on Friday.

It wasn't often pretty, but two-time defending Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka has extended a few impressive streaks while becoming one of the first players to advance to the fourth round of the year's opening Grand Slam tournament.

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka said her struggles on serve in her gruelling win over Carla Tauson in the third round of the Australian Open on Friday were down to gusty conditions that weakened one of her most powerful weapons.