In a riveting conclusion to the WTA 1000 Madrid, Poland’s Iga Świątek emerged victorious after an exhilarating showdown against Aryna Sabalenka. The match, characterized by its intensity and sheer determination, lasted a gripping three hours and 14 minutes, culminating in Świątek’s hard-earned triumph with a nail-biting scoreline of 7-5, 4-6, 7-6.
For Świątek, this win carried more than just the weight of a championship; it was a tale of redemption following her defeat to Sabalenka in the previous year. Fueled by a desire to rewrite history, the Polish star approached the final with unwavering focus, determined to overturn the outcome of their prior encounter. And indeed, she did so with flair and brilliance.
The match’s opening set set the stage for an enthralling battle, marked by momentum swings and relentless exchanges. Despite Świątek’s early break, Sabalenka countered fiercely, creating a tense deadlock. Yet, Świątek’s resilience shone through as she seized two critical break points at 6-5, ultimately clinching the set in her favour and setting the tone for the thrilling contest ahead.
❤️🔥 IGA EN FUEGO ❤️🔥@iga_swiatek seals a high-quality opening set over Sabalenka 7-5! #MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/OmUPhVudGc
— wta (@WTA) May 4, 2024
Sabalenka, however, refused to relent, mounting a formidable comeback in the second set, showcasing her trademark aggression and impeccable shots. Her dominant performance allowed her to swiftly claim the set in just 53 minutes, setting the stage for a decisive final act.
A thriller in the Spanish captial 🎇
— wta (@WTA) May 4, 2024
Defending champ @SabalenkaA battles back taking the second stanza 6-4 to force a decider against Swiatek in Madrid! #MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/4sCLz6C1Ey
Both athletes battled fiercely in the final set, delivering awe-inspiring rallies and moments of sheer brilliance. Despite facing match points, Świątek maintained her composure, pushing the set to a dramatic tie-break. In a pivotal moment, Sabalenka faltered, allowing Świątek to seize control and ultimately secure victory.
One for the picture frame 🖼🏆@iga_swiatek receives the @MutuaMadridOpen trophy from @GarbiMuguruza ⭐️⭐️#MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/SfRKJkkVWx
— wta (@WTA) May 4, 2024
Iga Świątek – Aryna Sabalenka 2-1 (7-5, 4-6, 7-6)