Sabalenka Advances in Madrid, Rublev Suffers Upset

Sabalenka Overcomes Slow Start

Aryna Sabalenka showcased resilience by rallying from a set down to triumph over Elise Mertens with a score of 3-6, 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday. This victory propels her into the last 16 at the Madrid Open.

The world’s top-ranked player and a two-time champion in Madrid, Sabalenka initially faced challenges but eventually discovered her rhythm on the Caja Mágica’s center court.

Her triumph sustains her aspiration for a third successive final appearance in the Spanish capital, having previously secured titles in 2021 and 2023 and finishing as the runner-up to Iga Swiatek the preceding year.

“I believe it was one of those instances where I wasn’t at my peak, and I became overly emotional early in the first set, placing myself in a difficult spot,” Sabalenka commented.

“I am genuinely pleased that I managed to elevate my level so significantly in the second and third sets, particularly against a formidable opponent like Elise,” she further stated.

This win denotes Sabalenka’s ninth straight victory against Mertens, her former doubles partner, with whom she clinched the 2019 US Open and the 2021 Australian Open.

Notwithstanding their past encounters, Sabalenka lauded Mertens as “an exceptional player” and praised their matches as “remarkable battles.”
Sabalenka’s next challenge will be against either Rebeka Masarova or Peyton Stearns for a coveted spot in the quarterfinals.

Rublev Ousted in Men’s Singles

In the men’s competition, top-seeded Andrey Rublev experienced a surprising setback, succumbing to a 6-4, 0-6, 6-4 defeat against Alexander Bublik, ranked No. 75 globally.

Despite a dominant second-set performance, Rublev faltered in maintaining his momentum and was consequently eliminated in the round of 32.

Bublik, celebrating his tenth career victory against a top-10 player, is now set to confront either Ben Shelton or Miami Open champion Jakub Mensik in the fourth round.

Separately, Brandon Nakashima secured his place in the fourth round of a Masters 1000 event for the fifth occasion in his career, overcoming Flavio Cobolli.

The American, ranked 32nd, is slated to face either Daniil Medvedev or Juan Manuel Cerundolo in his upcoming match.