In Madrid, Sabalenka is ready to repeat the feat: "I'm really looking forward to this final".
Although Aryna Sabalenka was in doubt when she arrived in the Spanish capital (4 wins in 8 matches since the Australian Open), the defending champion will be on hand this Saturday to defend her crown. Despite several hard-fought matches (4 wins in 3 sets), the Belarusian seems to be rediscovering her tennis. As powerful as ever behind the baseline, she has finally overwhelmed all her opponents. Despite a difficult draw, to say the least, given her status, the world number 2 managed to overcome all obstacles (with victories over Danielle Collins, Mirra Andreeva and, of course, Elena Rybakina). However, the ultimate challenge awaits her on Saturday (not before 6.30pm).
Of course, Sabalenka isn't just any player. World number 2, the Belarusian, twice Grand Slam champion (Australian Open 2023 and 2024), is no first-timer. Although behind in head-to-head meetings (7-3), she has already won against the inexhaustible Pole. So, of all the players, she probably has the best chance of beating Swiatek.
That said, it would be quite a feat to retain her title by eliminating Swiatek in the final. To repeat last year's performance would mean a great deal, since Swiatek has won every other final she has contested (7) since that 2023 final. In one year, Swiatek has now won 9 finals. And, if Sabalenka wins on Saturday, she will have been the only one to stop her at this stage of the competition (twice, in fact).
When asked about this dream final, the Belarusian is already looking forward to it: "It's going to be a great final. With Iga, we've had some excellent matches in the past, some very tough battles. I'm very excited about this final and I'm going to do everything in my power to win. We're both improving, making adjustments throughout the year. Once again, the main strategy will be to focus on myself, stay aggressive and trust my shots."
