Aryna Sabalenka fights back to win against Elise Mertens at Madrid Open

In Madrid, Spain, top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka showcased her resilience as she rallied to defeat her former doubles partner Elise Mertens in three sets, advancing in the Madrid Open. The match took place on Sunday, April 26, 2025, at the Caja Magica center court. Sabalenka, who had a rocky start, losing the first set 3-6, regained her form to win the next two sets 6-2, 6-1. This victory marked her ninth consecutive win over Mertens, with whom she won major titles in previous years. Sabalenka's performance emphasized her ability to handle pressure, particularly against a competitive opponent like Mertens. After a shaky beginning, Sabalenka's gameplay improved significantly, allowing her to dominate the second and third sets. "I didn’t feel my best and I got super emotional in the first set, but I’m really happy that I was able to bring a high level in the second and third sets," she reflected. This win allows Sabalenka to keep her hopes alive for a third consecutive final at the Madrid Open, following her triumphs in 2021 and 2023. In contrast, Andrey Rublev, the defending men's champion, faced an upset as he was eliminated from the tournament by Alexander Bublik. Rublev lost the match with a score of 6-4, 0-6, 6-4, a significant upset given his status as a top player and reigning champion in Madrid. Bublik, ranked 75th, celebrated this top-10 victory, marking his tenth win against a top-10 player in his career. The third round of the Madrid Open promises to be competitive, with Sabalenka set to face either Rebeka Masarova or Peyton Stearns next. Both Sabalenka and Zverev, who had won their initial matches, are vying to perform well as they progress in this prestigious tournament, underscoring the intensity of the competition at the Madrid Open.