MADRID: Defending Madrid Open champion Aryna Sabalenka staged a remarkable turnaround to defeat Elena Rybakina and secure her spot in the final.
Despite trailing by a set and a break, the Belarusian second seed fought back fiercely, eventually clinching the match 1-6, 7-5, 7-6 (7/5). Sabalenka now sets her sights on a showdown with world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s final.
Swiatek, displaying clinical form, comfortably dispatched Madison Keys with a 6-1, 6-3 victory earlier. In the men’s draw, third seed Daniil Medvedev retired due to injury from his quarterfinal clash with Jiri Lehecka.
Sabalenka’s dominance on clay was evident as she pressured Rybakina’s serve and secured crucial breaks, ultimately sealing her victory with a powerful serve.
Meanwhile, Swiatek’s solid performance against Keys showcased her focus and determination.
Medvedev’s injury withdrawal leaves the men’s draw uncertain, with Taylor Fritz set to face Andrey Rublev in the other semifinal.
