Sabalenka Conquers Madrid and Ties Historic Record
Aryna Sabalenka won her third title at the Madrid Open, equaling Petra Kvitova’s historical record. The world number one defeated Coco Gauff in straight sets in an intense final.
Sabalenka dominated the first set and then prevailed in the tiebreaker of the second, closing the match with a score of 6-3, 7-6 (3) on the outdoor clay court.
This triumph marks Sabalenka’s third title of the season, following her victories in Brisbane and Miami, and the twentieth of her career.
The match also meant a tie in the head-to-head record between Sabalenka and Gauff, with five wins for each.
Gauff, ranked number four, had the opportunity to rise to number two in the world with a victory. The 2023 US Open champion had only lost one set during the week leading up to the final.
Sabalenka used her powerful game to put pressure on Gauff from the start. Faced with Gauff’s strategy of opening the court, the champion reacted to force the tiebreaker and secure the victory.
Sabalenka had a championship point in the second set, recalling last year’s final against Iga Swiatek. After a moment of frustration, the three-time Grand Slam winner managed to control her emotions and close out the match.
In the end, Sabalenka celebrated her victory with her arms raised after Gauff’s last shot.
It was a very tough match. At the end of the second set it was very intense and I was very emotional. I am happy to have been able to manage my emotions.
Aryna Sabalenka
