In a major upset, World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka was defeated by 30th seed Hailey Baptiste 2-6 6-2 7-6 (8-6) in the Madrid Open quarterfinals. This marked Baptiste's most significant career win to date and her first victory over a top-five player, achieved after saving six match points. Sabalenka, a three-time Madrid champion, initially dominated but was eventually outplayed by Baptiste.
The American secured her first win over a top-five opponent after a dramatic 2 hours and 32 minutes match. The win sets up a semifinal meeting with Mirra Andreeva, who beat Leylah Fernandez earlier. 'Incredible. Super proud of myself,' said Baptiste, reflecting on her win.
Sabalenka's loss is the latest in a series of upsets in the WTA 1000 clay tournament, with all top seven seeds now eliminated.