Aryna Sabalenka edges past Naomi Osaka at Mutua Madrid Open
Aryna Sabalenka showcased her characteristic resilience at the Mutua Madrid Open on Monday, coming back from a set down to defeat former world number one Naomi Osaka 6-7 6-3 6-2 in the round of 16, reports BritPanorama.
The Belarusian, currently ranked first in the world, found herself trailing after Osaka claimed a hard-fought opening set tiebreak. However, Sabalenka responded emphatically, raising her level to take the second set before dominating the decider.
This victory extends her remarkable 2026 record, with only one defeat this year coming against Elena Rybakina at the Australian Open.
Sabalenka will face American Hailey Baptiste in Tuesday’s quarter-final. Baptiste secured her place in the last eight with a notable victory over Belinda Bencic earlier in the day.
During her post-match interview, Sabalenka created an awkward moment when pressed about her ability to prevail in tight contests. The interviewer referenced her tiger tattoo and fighting spirit before asking which aspect of her game she depends on most when matches become close.
The world number one offered a characteristically direct response: “Why should I say it, because then they (opponents) are gonna avoid that one? Honestly, I only rely on my fighting spirit, that’s it.”
Despite the blunt exchange, Sabalenka remained cheerful throughout the remainder of her courtside chat. She was effusive in her praise for Osaka’s performance and her broader comeback to professional tennis following the birth of her daughter.
“She’s such an inspiration, coming back after pregnancy in a sport like tennis, it’s not that easy at all, and to see her back in the top 20, for sure she’s going to be top 10, it’s incredible,” Sabalenka said. She added that Osaka’s return “gives us hope that we can have a baby and we can come back and still play that level of tennis.”
Sabalenka acknowledged she had been fortunate with several shots in the final set, crediting her opponent’s aggressive play for pushing her onto the back foot throughout much of the encounter.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Sabalenka reflected on her 15th consecutive victory and the factors behind her sustained excellence. “We focus a lot on my fitness, I think I improved a lot in that part of the game and I think that’s why, even if I start slow, I’m willing to find that intensity and to bring it on court,” she explained.
The three-time Grand Slam champion also spoke of her motivation to entertain spectators. “I think I have a really crazy love for this sport, and I want people to enjoy watching me play, and I want to bring the best tennis,” Sabalenka said.
In a sport where emotional swings often take center stage, Sabalenka’s clarity and determination serve as a reminder that behind every competitive comeback lies the essence of sport itself — an enduring battle against odds, both on and off the court.
