The Mutua Madrid Open final will be a rematch of last year’s championship clash, as Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka emerged victorious from their respective semi-finals on Thursday.
World No. 1 Swiatek continued her imperious form on clay, dismantling American Madison Keys 6-3, 6-1 in a display of clinical efficiency. The Polish star was dominant from the outset, breaking Keys’ serve twice in the opening set and never looking back. Her powerful forehand and pinpoint accuracy kept Keys on the defensive throughout.
“I’m really happy with the way I played today,” said Swiatek in her post-match interview. “I felt very focused from the beginning, and I was able to execute my game plan really well. Madison is a tough opponent, but I was able to neutralize her serve and dictate most of the rallies.”
Meanwhile, in a thrilling encounter on center court, Sabalenka roared back from a set down to defeat Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7). The Belarusian looked sluggish in the opening set, struggling with her serve and failing to find her usual rhythm. However, Sabalenka displayed her trademark resilience in the second set, breaking Rybakina twice and forcing a decider.
The final set was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both players trading breaks. Sabalenka finally edged ahead in a dramatic tie-break, clinching victory on her fourth match point.
“It was a really tough match,” admitted Sabalenka. “Elena played incredibly well, especially in the first set. But I’m proud of the way I fought back. I knew I had to stay aggressive and take my chances. It feels great to be back in the final here in Madrid.”
The upcoming final promises to be a fascinating encounter. Swiatek currently holds a narrow 3-2 edge in their head-to-head record, including a straight-sets victory in last year’s Madrid Open final. However, Sabalenka is known for her big-game mentality and will be looking to avenge that defeat.
Swiatek has been in phenomenal form on clay this season. She has won an incredible 22 consecutive matches on the surface, claiming titles in Stuttgart and Rome before reaching the final in Madrid. The 21-year-old is playing with a level of confidence and consistency that is unmatched on the tour. Her aggressive baseline game and her ability to defend effectively make her a formidable opponent on any surface, but especially on clay.
Sabalenka has also found her footing on clay after a shaky start to the season. The big-serving Belarusian has rediscovered her power and aggression, and her win over Rybakina showcased her ability to come back from a set down. If she can serve well and dictate rallies with her powerful forehand, she has the potential to trouble Swiatek.
