Aryna SABALENKA overcomes teen prodigy Robin MONTGOMERY to advance in Madrid Open
WTASunday, 28 April 2024 at 22:51
Aryna Sabalenka (No. 2) fought hard to overcome the 19-year-old player Robin Montgomery (No. 183) 6-1, 6-7(5), 6-4 and advance to the fourth round of the Madrid Open. The Belarusian extends her streak to 8 consecutive victories in Madrid and remains in contention to defend her title.
The first set started with Sabalenka's dominant display, as she looked much more comfortable on the court than her opponent. She saved a couple of break points against her in the opening game and quickly secured a break to take a commanding 3-0 lead with her serve. Although Montgomery managed to hold her serve once, Sabalenka kept her foot on the gas and comfortably claimed the set 6-1 in 41 minutes.
Sabalenka's dominance shifted in the second set, with the American improving her serve points won from 44% to 71%. Montgomery saved a couple of break points against her in the seventh game, and everything remained level until the tie-break, where the teenager held on to her early advantage and clinched the second set 7-6(5) on her third set point.
The former world No. 1 took an early lead in the third set at 2-0, but quickly surrendered her service, bringing the score to 2-2. Both players continued the trend from the previous set, with neither giving their opponent any chances in their service games.
However, tension peaked with the score at 5-4 in favor of Sabalenka, as the Belarusian took the initiative from the return and secured the crucial break just when it seemed headed for another tie-break, sealing the victory 6-1, 6-7(5), 6-4 in 2 hours and 32 minutes.
Sabalenka remains on course to defend her 2023 title, but now she faces Danielle Collins (No. 15), who is on a streak of 15 consecutive victories and comes off a win against Jaqueline Cristian (No. 73) with a score of 3-6, 6-4, 6-1.
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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