World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka launched her Cincinnati Open title defense with a determined 7-5, 6-1 victory over former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova on Saturday night.
Sabalenka faced relentless pressure early, saving six break points in a tense first set before sealing it 7-5. In the second set, the Belarusian shifted gears, converting both her break-point chances while keeping her opponent at bay. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s always a battle against her, you have to fight for every point,&rdquo; Sabalenka said, reflecting on her fifth win in eight encounters with Vondrousova.
The win sets up a blockbuster third-round showdown with Britain&rsquo;s Emma Raducanu, who earlier dispatched Olga Danilovic 6-3, 6-2. Known for her aggressive baseline play, Raducanu is on a perfect run in tournament openers since March but has yet to win a set against Sabalenka in their previous two matches, including at Wimbledon this year.
The high-stakes meeting promises an electrifying contest, with Sabalenka eyeing a deep run to defend her title and Raducanu hunting her first career victory over the top seed.

Wimbledon: Sabalenka Sets Raducanu Showdown

Top seed edges Vondrousova to set up thrilling Cincinnati clash with Raducanu

Wimbledon: Sabalenka Sets Raducanu Showdown

Top seed edges Vondrousova to set up thrilling Cincinnati clash with Raducanu

August 10, 2025 | 10:43 IST