London [UK], April 28: World number one Aryna Sabalenka had to dig deep to beat an inspired Naomi Osaka at the Madrid Open. Osaka, the former top-ranked WTA player, took a tight first set but defending champion Sabalenka regrouped to win 6-7 (1) 6-3 6-2. The opening set ended with the first tie-break Sabalenka has lost since the 2025 WTA Finals against Elena Rybakina. Osaka broke for 2-1 in the second, but she promptly dropped serve and won just three more games. Sabalenka conceded just three points on serve in the deciding set and wrapped up the win with her sixth ace and 31st winner of the match.
Source: Qatar Tribune
