Aryna Sabalenka continues to advance steadily in the Mutua Madrid Open 2026. The reigning champion defeated Jaqueline Cristian in the third round, in a match more competitive than the score reflected, keeping alive her title defense at the Caja Mágica.
The Belarusian, who is having a season of great solidity, will face Naomi Osaka in the round of 16 in one of the most attractive matchups of the women's draw. After the match, Sabalenka shared several interesting reflections, from her adaptation to the clay to a humorous anecdote about one of the highlight shots of the tournament.

Start of the clay court swing in Madrid
"I feel like starting the clay court swing in Madrid is not something so natural or easy. Due to the altitude and the conditions here, it's a bit challenging. I'm still finding my rhythm and hope that with each match, I can improve and find my best tennis on clay."
25 out of 26 victories this year
"I would say something like 'let's take it step by step and see if we get there.' I probably wouldn’t have believed it because it sounds crazy. But at the same time, with the planning and the work on my body, we are taking more time to arrive better prepared for each tournament. So maybe I would have believed it... although it still sounds incredible."
Her one-handed backhand
"I was waiting for that question. Did you see it? It was insane. We actually practice those before each training, even with the left hand, so I've hit a few. But to do it in a match and have it be a winning shot... it's probably the shot of my life. I'm waiting for Roger to give me some advice."
Match against Osaka
"The matches we've played have always been very tough battles, at a high level. No matter the surface, it will always be a fight. If I face her, it will be a great challenge and I'm excited about it."
Importance of defense
"It's very important to be able to apply pressure not only when you are well positioned, but also when you're running or defending. Being able to stay in the point and cause damage even in those situations adds a lot of pressure to the opponent. I think it's crucial nowadays."
Cette actualité est une traduction automatique. Vous pouvez lire la nouvelle originale Sabalenka, tras su increíble golpe: “Estoy esperando a que Federer me dé algún consejo”

