🎾 Sabalenka defeats Mertens to reach Wimbledon quarterfinals
Match result: Aryna Sabalenka won 6–4, 7–6 (7–4).
The Belarusian star hit 36 winners with only 18 unforced errors, showing powerful and consistent play.
This win sends her into the Wimbledon quarterfinals without dropping a set in the tournament so far.
🤝 Former doubles partners turned rivals
Sabalenka and Mertens were once one of the most successful women’s doubles pairs, even winning the 2021 Australian Open together.
This emotional match marked another chapter in their individual careers, with Sabalenka stating:
“It’s always tough to play someone you know well. She’s a smart player.”
🧠 Match analysis
First set: Sabalenka dominated with her signature aggressive groundstrokes.
Second set: Mertens fought hard and even led 3–1, but Sabalenka fought back, forcing a tiebreak.
Sabalenka kept her cool in the tiebreak, winning it 7–4.
📊 Key Stats
| Category | Sabalenka | Mertens |
|---|---|---|
| Winners | 36 | 18 |
| Unforced Errors | 18 | 14 |
| Aces | 7 | 2 |
| Break Points Saved | 4/5 | 2/4 |
🔜 Next match
Sabalenka will face Laura Siegemund (age 37, world No. 104) in the quarterfinals.
Siegemund is enjoying a late-career surge and will be playing her first-ever Wimbledon quarterfinal.
🧩 Quick Takeaways
Sabalenka’s 11th consecutive Grand Slam quarterfinal—an impressive streak.
Her power game and mental toughness continue to set her apart.
The emotional dimension of playing against a former partner added tension and intrigue to the match.