Sabalenka Dominates in Madrid to Claim Historic Third Title
By Sports Desk
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka delivered a commanding performance to defeat Coco Gauff 6-2, 6-3 in the final of the 2025 Madrid Open, clinching her third career title at the tournament and reinforcing her dominance on clay ahead of the French Open.
Sabalenka needed just 82 minutes to dismantle the American teenager, dictating play from the baseline with powerful groundstrokes, pin-point returns, and an 84% first-serve win rate. Her aggression, depth, and tactical poise overwhelmed Gauff, who was unable to find rhythm under relentless pressure.
“Madrid is special for me. The energy, the court, the fans—it brings out my best tennis,” Sabalenka said during the trophy ceremony.
This title also marked Sabalenka’s fourth WTA title in the last 12 months, underscoring a period of formidable consistency and mental maturity that has seen her rise to the top of the sport.
📈 On Par With Kvitova — And Gunning for More
The win places Sabalenka alongside Petra Kvitova as the only women to win the Madrid Open three times. She previously lifted the trophy in 2021 and 2023, and her consistency on clay is now drawing comparisons with the tour’s greatest modern players.
Her Madrid run included wins over top-10 players like Elena Rybakina in the semifinal and Maria Sakkari in the quarters, where she didn’t drop a set. Her ability to mix explosive power with improved movement and strategic shot placement has made her nearly unplayable on fast clay.
👟 Gauff Outplayed, But Growing
Despite the loss, Gauff showed flashes of brilliance throughout the week. Her aggressive forehand and improved net play helped her rally past Jessica Pegula and Caroline Garcia en route to the final. Projected to rise to No. 2 in the WTA rankings, the 20-year-old remains one of the sport’s brightest stars.
“She played unbelievable tennis today. I’ve got work to do, but this is motivation,” Gauff said post-match.
🎾 Eyes on Roland Garros — A Grand Slam Storm Brewing
With the French Open just three weeks away, Sabalenka’s Madrid form makes her one of the clear favorites, alongside Iga Świątek and Elena Rybakina. Her ability to maintain aggression while keeping unforced errors low has been key to her rise.
She’s now won 14 of her last 15 matches on clay, and her team insists she’s peaking at the right time.
“I’ve worked so hard to be ready for Paris. This win gives me belief,” Sabalenka told IDNN.
The tennis world now turns its eyes to Roland Garros, where the battle between Sabalenka’s firepower, Świątek’s defensive mastery, and Gauff’s athleticism promises one of the most open women’s Grand Slam draws in recent memory.