In a dramatic quarterfinal clash at the Berlin Open, World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka demonstrated her unyielding determination and mental fortitude to overcome Elena Rybakina in a nail-biting encounter. The match ended with a scoreline of 7-6 (6), 3-6, 7-6 (6), with Sabalenka saving four match points in the final-set tiebreak.

The Match Breakdown

First Set: The opening set was a rollercoaster, with both players exchanging breaks. Rybakina initially took a 4-2 lead, but Sabalenka quickly leveled the score. The set culminated in a tense tiebreak, where Sabalenka edged out Rybakina 8-6.

Second Set: Rybakina responded strongly in the second set, racing to a 2-0 lead and maintaining her advantage to close out the set 6-3.

Deciding Set: The final set was a testament to both players' resilience. Sabalenka broke for a 5-4 lead but failed to serve out the match. Rybakina broke back and held for 6-5, pushing the match to a decisive tiebreak. In the tiebreak, Rybakina led 6-2 and was on the verge of victory, but Sabalenka mounted an incredible comeback, winning five consecutive points to clinch the match.

Post-Match Reactions

Sabalenka reflected on her victory, stating, "Elena is a great player, and we've had many tough battles. I honestly have no idea how I managed to win those last points; I think I just got lucky." She added, "Winning matches like this trains your fighting spirit for future tournaments, and I'm proud of myself for fighting till the very last point."

Next Up

Sabalenka will face Czech player Marketa Vondrousova in the semifinals. Vondrousova, aiming for her first final since winning Wimbledon in 2023, defeated Ons Jabeur 6-4, 6-1 in her quarterfinal match.

Other Quarterfinal Highlights

Chinese qualifier Wang Xinyu advanced to the semifinals after eighth seed Paula Badosa retired due to a right hip injury. Wang, ranked 49th in the world, was leading 6-1, 0-0 when Badosa withdrew. Wang has had a breakout week in Berlin, including a victory over second seed Coco Gauff in the previous round. She will next face either Amanda Anisimova or Liudmila Samsonova for a place in the final.

This match was a showcase of Sabalenka's grit and power, proving why she is the current World No. 1. Her ability to perform under pressure and stage a comeback from the brink of defeat will undoubtedly boost her confidence as she progresses in the tournament.