Aryna Sabalenka has advanced to her first Miami Open final after a commanding victory over Jasmine Paolini, winning 6-2, 6-2. The Belarusian, now holding a 22-4 record this season, secured back-to-back top-10 wins—following her quarterfinal triumph over Zheng Qinwen—and will compete for her maiden Miami Open title.
The world No. 1 will play her second consecutive WTA 1000 final and the 11th of her career. She now awaits the winner between Jessica Pegula and Alexandra Eala as she aims for her 7th WTA 1000 title and first trophy of the season.
Sabalenka overwhelms Paolini to claim opening set
Sabalenka had a slightly shaky start, facing a break point in her opening service game, but Paolini failed to capitalize. When it was Paolini’s turn to serve, she struggled against Sabalenka’s aggressive returns, even on her first serve. This pressure resulted in a break for Sabalenka in the fourth game.
After nearly 20 minutes, Sabalenka had established control with a 4-1 lead, extending it to 5-2. Paolini seemed poised to hold her serve at 40-15, but Sabalenka unleashed four consecutive winners to swiftly close out the set 6-2. The Belarusian dominated with 17 winners and 7 unforced errors, while Paolini managed just 8 winners and 3 unforced errors.
Sabalenka dismisses Paolini with clinical second set
Determined to maintain momentum, Sabalenka fired an ace to comfortably hold her opening service game. Paolini tried to keep up from the baseline, running from side to side to retrieve shots, but Sabalenka’s powerful forehand and backhand winners made extended rallies nearly impossible.
Much like in the first set, Sabalenka remained composed under pressure. She saved a break point in the third game before breaking Paolini’s serve in the next, establishing a commanding 3-1 lead.
The 7-time WTA 1000 champion held onto her lead with an impressive 72% first-serve percentage, winning 78% of those points. The Belarusian also won 52% of return points. Just like in the first set, Paolini had to serve to stay in the match, but she succumbed to the pressure of the moment. Sabalenka, with deep and effective returns, sealed a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Paolini and advanced to the Miami Open final, where she awaits the winner between Jessica Pegula and teen sensation Alexandra Eala.
Match Statistics Sabalenka vs. Paolini
| Sabalenka | VS | Paolini |
|---|---|---|
| Service | ||
| 6 | Aces | 3 |
| 2 | Double Faults | 1 |
| 76% (39/51) | 1st Service Percentage | 58% (32/55) |
| 77% (30/39) | 1st Service Points Won | 63% (20/32) |
| 45% (5/11) | 2nd Service Points Won | 35% (8/23) |
| 100% (4/4) | Break Points Saved | 0% (0/3) |
| 100% (8/8) | Service Games | 57% (4/7) |
| Return | ||
| 38% (12/32) | 1st Return Points Won | 23% (9/39) |
| 65% (15/23) | 2nd Return Points Won | 55% (6/11) |
| - | Break Points Saved | - |
| Other | ||
| 1h 07m | Match Duration | 1h 07m |
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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