Why Madrid Open title could be pivotal for Aryna Sabalenka in keeping hold of World No.2 spot as points set to drop
WTA
Aryna Sabalenka ensured she remains as the world No. 2 for another week after defeating Elena Rybakina in the semifinals of the Madrid Open. The 2-time Australian Open champion was on the brink of losing her second-ranking position to Coco Gauff, in an increasingly tight battle for the top spots in the WTA Ranking.
For now, Iga Swiatek remains comfortably at the world No. 1 spot, and amidst the clay swing, it seems unlikely that she will relinquish her position. The Polish player has already surpassed 100 weeks at the top of the WTA Ranking and is guaranteed to stay there, at least until after the French Open, where she defends her title.
The Battle for No. 2
However, Swiatek's pursuers remain within striking distance, with only details defining their positions. If Rybakina had defeated Sabalenka in the semifinals, Gauff would have been No. 2. Furthermore, if the Kazakh had claimed the title, she would have also taken the No. 3 spot, displacing Sabalenka.
The Belarusian had a tough challenge against Elena Rybakina, who dominated during the first part of the match and was up 6-1, 4-2 before Sabalenka's comeback began. Sabalenka sealed the victory with a score of 1-6, 7-5, 7-6 and advanced to the final of the Madrid Open for the second consecutive year.
The champion of the Madrid Open is yet to be determined, with the same finalists as in 2023. A potential victory for the Polish player will further extend her lead in the rankings, while also favoring Rybakina and Gauff to surpass Sabalenka in the coming weeks.
Sabalenka was crowned champion at the 2023 Madrid Open after defeating Swiatek in the final with a score of 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
Defense of Points in the Coming Weeks
Considering the points defended by the top 4 players in the rest of the clay swing, Swiatek defends 2,215 points for reaching the quarterfinals of the Rome Open and winning the title at Roland Garros. Rybakina follows with 1,130 points for winning the Rome Open title and reaching the third round at the French Open.
Sabalenka defends 815 points for reaching the second round of the Rome Open and reaching the semifinals at the French Open, while Gauff has to defend 465 points for reaching the third round at Rome and the quarterfinals at the French Open.
Top 4 WTA players' ranking without Rome 2023 and French Open 2023 points
| Player | Points | Max. (if wins Madrid Open) |
| Iga Swiatek | 8,345 | 8,695 |
| Coco Gauff | 6,818 | |
| Aryna Sabalenka | 6,708 | 7,058 |
| Elena Rybakina | 5,543 |
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
