On May 3, 2025, the clay courts of La Caja Mágica in Madrid witnessed a masterclass from World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, who clinched her third Madrid Open title with a hard-fought 6-3, 7-6(3) victory over Coco Gauff. The Belarusian’s triumph not only solidified her dominance in women’s tennis but also earned her a staggering €985,030 in prize money, alongside 1,000 WTA ranking points. As she prepares to celebrate her 27th birthday on May 5, Sabalenka revealed plans for an extravagant early birthday party in Madrid, promising a night of revelry with her team before the Italian Open begins. Her victory and festive plans have set the tennis world abuzz, blending athletic prowess with her vibrant personality.
Sabalenka’s path to the Madrid title was a testament to her resilience and aggressive playing style. Facing Gauff in their 10th career meeting, she surged to a 4-1 lead in the first set, winning 17 consecutive points with her trademark power and precision. The second set proved more challenging, as Gauff, fresh off a commanding semifinal win over Iga Swiatek, pushed back, earning a set point at 5-4. Sabalenka, however, held her nerve, capitalizing on Gauff’s eighth double fault in a tense tiebreak to seal the match. “I’m super happy. It wasn’t an easy match today,” Sabalenka told reporters, her voice radiating pride. “I’m so happy to get this trophy.” The win marked her third WTA title of 2025, following victories in Brisbane and Miami, and her 20th career singles title, placing her among the sport’s elite.
The financial reward was as impressive as the performance. Sabalenka’s €985,030 prize dwarfed Gauff’s runner-up cheque of €523,870, reflecting the Madrid Open’s commitment to equal pay for its ATP and WTA events. The victory widened Sabalenka’s lead atop the WTA rankings, with her 10,768 points outpacing Swiatek’s 6,773, a gap of 4,345 points. This financial and competitive dominance underscores her status as the leading force in women’s tennis heading into the French Open. The new trophy design unveiled in Madrid added extra motivation, with Sabalenka noting, “This was an early birthday gift,” as she eyed her third title in the Spanish capital, tying Petra Kvitova’s record.
Off the court, Sabalenka’s plans for her birthday celebration have captured as much attention as her on-court heroics. With the Italian Open looming on May 6, she admitted to prioritizing a night of fun in Madrid. “We are definitely going out and we are going to have some drinks,” she declared with a grin. “I’m definitely going to have a tequila. I know Rome is coming, but it’s only one drink.” The party, set to include her coaching team and close friends, promises to be a lavish affair, reflecting her larger-than-life persona. Known for her playful interactions with fans, Sabalenka has embraced her global following, including her “Brazilian diva” nickname earned in Miami, and her Madrid celebration is expected to be a vibrant nod to her international appeal.
The match itself highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the finalists. Gauff, despite her impressive run, struggled with her serve, a recurring issue that Sabalenka exploited. “Coco can match me in a battle of ground shots, but her serve is always liable to break down at crucial moments,” Sabalenka observed, acknowledging her rival’s talent while noting the tactical edge that secured her victory. Gauff, gracious in defeat, praised Sabalenka’s performance, saying, “You’re always tough to face,” and expressed hope for future finals. The American’s rise to No. 3 in the WTA Live Rankings, overtaking Jessica Pegula, signals her growing stature, even as she left Madrid with a bittersweet €523,870 consolation.
Sabalenka’s Madrid triumph is more than a personal milestone; it’s a statement of intent for the clay season. With only two career clay titles—both in Madrid—her 22-4 record at La Caja Mágica reflects a mastery of the venue’s high-altitude conditions, which favor her aggressive style. As she prepares for Rome and Roland Garros, her confidence is palpable. “I’m playing on such a high level,” she said, vowing to “fight for every point.” Whether sipping tequila in Madrid or chasing Grand Slam glory in Paris, Sabalenka’s blend of power, charisma, and ambition ensures she remains the player to watch in 2025.
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