Aryna
Sabalenka teetering on the edge, saved four match points to overcome Peyton
Stearns (No. 64) 6-7(2), 6-2, 7-6(6) at Indian Wells. The Belarusian endured a
marathon match against the American former junior world No. 1, who played an
extraordinary game but couldn't seal the victory.
In the
first set, Stearns took the initiative and secured the first break after a
couple of unforced errors from Sabalenka. The former world No. 1 responded with
an immediate break, but she couldn't defend her service, and the American took
a 4-2 lead. Later on, the world No. 64 had the opportunity to close the set
with her service, but Sabalenka recovered the break, extending the set to a
tie-break, where she triumphed 7-2.
Sabalenka
had a mere 53% first-service rate, winning 78% of them and only 38% with the
second service. Stearns, on the other hand, maintained consistency throughout
the set with a 60% first-service rate, winning 62% of them and 65% with the
second.
As the
second set began, Sabalenka started responding to the service deeper into the
court and was vastly superior to her opponent, winning short points from the
baseline. The 2-times Grand Slam champion secured two breaks to claim the set
in 36 minutes.
In the
third set, both players showcased their best repertoire. While the Belarusian
didn't give opportunities with her service, Stearns fought from behind to stay
in the match. Sabalenka wasted two break points in the sixth game, and the
equality persisted with a deafening atmosphere from the crowd.
With the
score at 4-4, the local player secured the break and had the chance to finish
the match with her service. However, the pressure got to her, and she
squandered four match points in her favor before conceding her service to
Sabalenka.
In a tense
18-point game where Stearns achieved the break to lead 6-5, she again had the
service in her favor to claim victory but failed once more. Everything was
ultimately decided in the tie-break. The world No. 2 even faced losing three
match points in her favor but ultimately secured an outstanding victory with a
score of 6-7(2), 6-2, 7-6(6).
In the
third round, she will face an exciting matchup for fans against the 2021 US
Open champion, Emma Raducanu, who advanced due to her second-round opponent
Dayana Yastremska's injury (4-0, ret.).
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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