Aryna Sabalenka defeats Coco Gauff to clinch her third Madrid Open title, while Gauff’s search for a major win continues.
Aryna Sabalenka has made tennis history, capturing her third Madrid Open title after a commanding 6-3, 7-6 (3) victory over Coco Gauff in the women’s singles final on Saturday. This triumph marks a significant achievement for the Belarusian, as she ties Petra Kvitova’s record for the most titles in the tournament, with three apiece.
The world’s No. 1-ranked player has had an unstoppable start to the season, adding this win to her recent Miami Open title. With the win in Madrid, Sabalenka becomes the first woman to win both the Miami and Madrid tournaments in the same year since Serena Williams achieved the feat in 2013.
Sabalenka has been in outstanding form, winning her ninth WTA 1000 title and extending her incredible run with six consecutive victories and 12 straight sets. She’s also notched up 46 wins over top-10 ranked opponents, solidifying her dominance in the sport.
Despite the loss, Coco Gauff showed great sportsmanship after the match, congratulating Sabalenka on her victory. The 19-year-old American, ranked No. 4 in the world, expressed gratitude for her opportunity to compete in the final, thanking her lord and savior Jesus Christ for the chance. “Congrats on all the success you’ve been having,” Gauff added, acknowledging Sabalenka’s impressive performance.
This latest defeat means Gauff’s victory drought continues, with her last win coming in the United Cup for Team USA earlier in the year. Gauff, who is widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents on the WTA Tour, will be hoping to break her barren run soon.
Sabalenka’s performance in Madrid was nothing short of spectacular, as she swept through Gauff in straight sets, overcoming the American’s challenge in a tense second-set tiebreak. Gauff fought hard throughout the match, but Sabalenka’s powerful groundstrokes and resilience were too much to handle.
The final was a testament to the elite level of tennis both players are capable of, with Sabalenka’s grit and determination ultimately prevailing. After the match, the two players showed respect and admiration for one another, with Sabalenka praising Gauff’s resilience and talent. “I’m super happy to see you back in the finals, playing your best tennis,” Sabalenka said. “I’m sure we’ll play many more times in the finals. Hope I’m going to get all of them, but I always enjoy fighting against you.”
The match also marked a major milestone for Sabalenka, who has firmly established herself as the top player in the women’s game. Her powerful performances have made her the one to beat in 2025, and this win only strengthens her position as the leader of the WTA.
For Gauff, the loss is yet another setback in her quest for a major title. Although she has made significant strides in her career, including a strong showing at Wimbledon and the US Open, the Madrid final was another opportunity missed. Gauff will be looking to bounce back in upcoming tournaments, with her eyes firmly set on future Grand Slam victories.
As for Sabalenka, it’s clear that this is her world right now. With her relentless determination and consistent dominance, she’s proving to be the player to watch in women’s tennis.
