Sabalenka Escapes Raducanu's Clutches to Reach Wimbledon's Round of 16

Aryna Sabalenka will advance to the second week of Wimbledon after a tight victory over Emma Raducanu (7-6, 6-4).

The world No. 1, following wins against Branstine and Bouzkova, faced the Raducanu test—a two-time quarterfinalist at the tournament and backed by the entire British crowd. The match promised excitement, and the battle was fierce.

The first set, lasting 1 hour and 14 minutes, was full of twists and turns. Raducanu initially saved seven set points on her serve at 4-5 before serving for the set at 6-5. But Sabalenka broke back immediately and clinched the tie-break 8-6.

In the second set, Raducanu raced ahead to a 4-1 lead. However, the Brit couldn’t hold onto her advantage, losing five consecutive games to ultimately fall 7-6, 6-4 in two hours of play.

With this 46th win of the season, Sabalenka secures her spot in the round of 16 at the All England Club. She will face Elise Mertens, who earlier eliminated Elina Svitolina (6-1, 7-6).