Aryna Sabalenka, a three-time champion at the Mutua Madrid Open, finally broke her clay‑court drought this season by defeating American rising star Peyton Stearns. The win came on the heels of her remarkable "Sunshine Double," a feat that saw her capture titles at both Indian Wells and Miami earlier in the year. Having just been honoured as the Laureus Sportswoman of the Year on Monday, Sabalenka returned to competition after a three‑week hiatus. While the world No.1 appeared a touch rusty at the start of the match, she quickly found her rhythm and edged Stearns 7‑5, 6‑3.
Speaking to Sky Sports Tennis after the match, Sabalenka admitted the contest was a "tough match" and highlighted that it was her first official encounter on clay this year. "She’s an incredible player and the surface really suits her game," Sabalenka said. "The longer I stayed on court, the better I felt, and I hope to bring an even higher level of tennis in the next round.
I'm just glad that when it mattered I was able to deliver my best tennis." Former British No.1 Laura Robson offered her perspective on Sabalenka's performance. "We expect perfection from Sabalenka most of the time, especially given her astonishing 24‑1 win‑loss record this season," Robson noted. "But you have to remember she’s had a short break.
She’s been selective about her schedule, choosing tournaments that fit her preparation plan. After Miami she took a few weeks off, then came to Madrid, which is played at altitude and presents a different challenge.
Stearns hits a big, kick‑serve that bounces high, yet Sabalenka handled it well. It wasn’t her absolute best, but the fact she still won in straight sets shows her resilience. She’s building momentum and looks relaxed, which is a good sign for the weeks ahead." In a lighter moment, Sabalenka was asked about the surprising appearance of Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in her players' box. She explained that Courtois had reached out to her last year about attending a Real Madrid match, but ended up spending time with her boyfriend, Georgios Frangulis.
"I met him for the first time just before the match. He’s a very nice guy and a great source of support," Sabalenka said, smiling. Courtois later joined tennis greats Rafael Nadal, Jannik Sinner and football star Jude Bellingham for a photo shoot at the iconic Bernabéu stadium, which has been temporarily converted into a clay court for the tournament. The transformation offers players a rare chance to train in a venue steeped in sporting history.
The tournament also featured a dominant display from defending champion Iga Swiatek, who dispatched qualifier Daria Snigur 6‑1, 6‑2 in just 61 minutes. Swiatek, who learned Spanish in high school, attempted a quick greeting to the crowd: "Hola, ¿cómo estás Madrid?" She also shared a personal anecdote about her admiration for Rafael Nadal, recalling a training stint at his Majorca academy where she received advice from the 22‑time Grand Slam champion. While Nadal does not hold an official coaching role, Swiatek said she can always reach out to him, describing his support as "comforting" and a testament to his character.
In another upset, former world No.2 Elina Svitolina was beaten 6‑3, 6‑4 by Hungary’s Anna Bondar, marking a historic moment as Bondar became the first Hungarian to topple a top‑10 player since Timea Babos’s surprise win over CoCo Vandeweghe at the 2018 Australian Open. Svitolina, who had reached the semifinals in Stuttgart the previous week, required medical treatment for an ankle issue during a timeout in the second set. Bondar, reflecting on the victory, said, "I knew I had to bring my A‑game, and I think I did.
I’ve played her three times last year, so I knew what to expect. The conditions here suit my heavy forehand, which was a key factor today." Overall, the Madrid event continues to showcase high‑level tennis amid a backdrop of unique venues and cross‑sport camaraderie.
Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports or stream via NOW and the Sky Sports app, which provides subscribers with more than 50% additional live sport coverage at no extra charge. The tournament’s blend of seasoned champions, emerging talents, and memorable moments promises an exciting road ahead for the WTA 1000 series.