Aryna Sabalenka beat Coco Gauff in straight sets Saturday to win her third Madrid Open title, matching a tournament record.
The world No. 1 won 6-3, 7-6 (3) on the clay court at the Caja Magica. Sabalenka powered through the opening set and edged the American in a tiebreaker to seal the victory.
The win added to Sabalenka's Madrid Open titles in 2021 and 2023. She equaled Petra Kvitova's record for most titles at the event.
This marked Sabalenka's third title of 2025, following wins in Brisbane and Miami. It was her 20th career title. The result also brought her head-to-head record against Gauff level at five wins each.
The fourth-ranked Gauff had the opportunity to rise to world No. 2 with a win. The 2023 US Open champion had dropped just one set in the tournament before reaching the final. Gauff's record in finals now stands at nine wins and 11 losses.
Sabalenka used her powerful drive early in the match. When Gauff began spreading her shots to find an advantage, Sabalenka maintained composure to force a second-set tiebreaker.
Sabalenka held a championship point in the second set but did not convert, a moment that echoed her loss in last year's final to Iga Swiatek where she also failed to convert championship points. She recovered quickly from the miss and finished the match.
The match ended when Gauff's final shot hit the net. Sabalenka thrust her arms into the air in celebration.
“It was a really tough match,” Sabalenka said. “At the end of the second set it was really intense and I was very emotional. I am happy I was able to handle my emotions.”
Associated PressMatthew FuttermanOff the WireSpanish capital((Source))
