Aryna Sabalenka won her third Madrid Open on Saturday after a 6-3, 7-6 (3) victory over Kokogoff. The world’s No. 1 wins its third WTA title of the year.
Sabalenka played the last three finals of the WTA 1000 tournament, comparable to Petrak Vitova’s record for three Madrid Open titles. Her previous victory took place in 2023 and 2021. She also tied Goff with five wins in 10 meetings.
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“I’ve always enjoyed fighting you, you’re that kind of fighter,” Sabalenka told Gouf. “I’m very happy to be able to win this year.”
Sabalenka won her sixth consecutive match against her top 10 opponents this year without dropping a set.
She showed dominance with a four-game winning streak without acknowledging points to build a 4-1 lead in the first set. Gov fought to close the gap 4-2, but the Belarusians secured the set in another break.
Gauff rose 2-1 in the second set, building a 5-3 lead before a double fault, and Sabalenka was once broken. She tied 5-5 before winning the title in a tiebreak.
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Gouf was elegant in his defeat and praised his post-match rivals.
“Incredible tournaments, you’re always hard to face,” Gouf told Sabalenka. “Congratulations on all the success you have. Hopefully we can return to this position next year.”
Sabalenka landed 69% of her services, earning points on her first and second 68% and 75%. Gauff landed 55% of her services, earning points on the first and second 57% and 53%. Sabalenka had two aces and two double faults on Gauff’s two aces and two double faults.
Both athletes are making a quick turn as they prepare to compete at the Italian Open in Rome this week. From there, clay court season concludes with Roland Garros’ second Grand Slam.
