Aryna Sabalenka secured her third Madrid Open title with a hard-fought win over Coco Gauff, but her post-match words reflected the deep respect she holds for her opponent. After defeating the American star 6-3, 7-6 (7/3), Sabalenka took a moment to acknowledge Gauff’s fighting spirit and the battles they have shared on the court.
“I’m sure we’ll play many more times in the finals,” Sabalenka said with a smile. “I hope I’m gonna get all of them, but I always enjoy fighting against you. You’re such a fighter. Happy to see you back.”
The exchange highlighted the growing rivalry between the two players, both of whom have established themselves as dominant forces in women’s tennis. Sabalenka’s victory in Madrid further solidified her position as the world number one, while Gauff’s run to the final demonstrated her ability to challenge the best.
Aryna Sabalenka in 2025
Ranked no.1, Sabalenka played her last match on the 3rd of May when she overcame world no.4 Cori Gauff 6-3 7-6(3)
in the final in Madrid to win her 20th career title.At the moment, during this season the Belarussian owns a 31-5 match record. Aryna clinched 3 titles in 2025 in Brisbane, Miami and Madrid. Sabalenka reached the final at the Australian Open, Indian Wells and Stuttgart.
Cori Gauff in 2025
Ranked world no.4, the American played her last match on the 3rd of May when she was defeated by world no.1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-3 7-6(3) in the final in Madrid (draw).
During this season Gauff owns a compiled 19-7 record. The American clinched 1 title in Australia. Coco got to the final in Madrid.
Aryna Sabalenka and Cori Gauff squared off 10 times. Their actual record is 5-5.