Aryna Sabalenka seals Madrid Open hat-trick by dismantling Gauff | Tennis

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Coco Gauff to win her third title of the season on the Madrid Open. The world No 1 received 17 factors in a row early within the contest however needed to save a set level within the second set on her approach to a 6-3, 7-6 (3) victory on the Caja Mágica.

It’s a third title within the Spanish capital for Sabalenka, who lifted the trophy in 2021 and 2023 earlier than dropping to Iga Swiatek 12 months in the past. The Belarusian now has a lead of greater than 4,000 factors over her stuttering rival within the rankings, though the consequence does imply Swiatek stays forward of Gauff at No 2.

Sabalenka provides the Madrid crown to titles in Miami and Brisbane. Her excellent consistency has resulted in her reaching the ultimate in six of the eight tournaments she has performed to date in 2025.

Gauff has hit type once more right here after a tough spell however seemed helpless as Sabalenka reeled off 17 factors in a row to steer 4-1. The American regained her composure and, though she couldn’t salvage the primary set, she broke serve to steer 2-1 within the second.

Gauff, who had received 5 of their earlier 9 conferences, served for the set at 5-4, however Sabalenka lastly took her fifth probability to interrupt again, saving a set level and seeing the humorous aspect when she dropped her racket in the midst of one rally.

Gauff, serving at 5-6, then saved a match level with a courageous second serve, however Sabalenka cast forward once more within the tie-break and was handed the title on her second match level because of a double fault from her opponent.

“I’m super happy that I was able to handle my emotions at the end of the second set,” Sabalenka informed the Tennis Channel after the match. “It was really intense and it was a real fight over there. I’m very happy I was able to close this match in two sets.”

Gauff stated: “I’d like to congratulate Aryna on an incredible tournament. You’re always tough to face. Congrats to your team. Congrats on all the success you’ve been having.”