Sabalenka Advances in Madrid, Rublev Suffers Upset

Sabalenka Overcomes Slow Start

Aryna Sabalenka recovered from an initial setback to triumph over Elise Mertens with a score of 3-6, 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday, securing her place in the round of 16 at the Madrid Open.

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

This victory sustains Sabalenka’s aspirations for a third consecutive final appearance in the Spanish capital, where she previously secured titles in 2021 and 2023 and was the runner-up to Iga Swiatek last year.

Sabalenka’s Reflections

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

“I am very pleased that I managed to elevate my performance in the second and third sets, particularly against a formidable opponent like Elise,” she added.

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

Despite their lopsided head-to-head record, Sabalenka lauded Mertens as “an exceptional player” and acknowledged their matches as “intense battles.”
Sabalenka’s next opponent will be either Rebeka Masarova or Peyton Stearns for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Rublev’s Unexpected Defeat

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

Although Rublev dominated the second set, he was unable to sustain his momentum and was ousted in the round of 32.

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

Other Match Results

Separately, Brandon Nakashima has progressed to the fourth round of a Masters 1000 event for the fifth occasion in his career, having defeated Flavio Cobolli.

The American, ranked 32nd, is scheduled to face either Daniil Medvedev or Juan Manuel Cerundolo next.