World number one Aryna Sabalenka delivered a dominant performance to power past Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, securing her spot in the Miami Open final. The Belarusian star triumphed in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, in just over an hour.
The 26-year-old, a three-time Grand Slam champion, maintained her flawless form at the tournament without dropping a single set. Fresh off a runner-up finish at Indian Wells, Sabalenka is now chasing her first Miami Open title.
Clinical Sabalenka in Control
Sabalenka’s powerful serves and aggressive groundstrokes overwhelmed sixth-seed Paolini, who struggled to find her rhythm. The top seed won an impressive 77% of her first-serve points, slammed six aces, and fended off all four break points she faced. She converted four of her five break opportunities, leaving little room for Paolini to counter.
“I’m super happy to give myself another chance at a final,” Sabalenka said after the match. “She’s an incredible player, so I knew I had to fight for every point. I stayed focused on my serve and tried to keep the ball low. I’m really happy with how I played today.”
A Season of Finals
This marks Sabalenka’s fourth final appearance in 2025. She kicked off the season with a title win in Brisbane, followed by a runner-up finish at the Australian Open to Madison Keys and another at Indian Wells to teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva. Now, she’s hungry to lift the trophy in Miami.
What’s Next?
Sabalenka awaits the winner of the second semifinal between American fourth seed Jessica Pegula and Philippine wildcard Alexandra Eala. Eala has been the talk of the tournament after her stunning upset over world number two Iga Swiatek. The final is set for Saturday, and Sabalenka will be eager to cap off her South Florida campaign with a victory.
Tennis fans can expect an electrifying showdown as Sabalenka chases her first Miami Open crown. Stay tuned for all the action!
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