World number one Aryna Sabalenka triumphed over Emma Raducanu in a dramatic Cincinnati Open third-round match by 7-6(3), 4-6, 7-6(5). The match lasted three hours and nine minutes.
Sabalenka’s powerful serve helped her win two tiebreaks, allowing her to successfully defend her title. Although Raducanu outscored Sabalenka 125 to 123 in total points, Sabalenka’s victory in the tiebreak marked her 18th tiebreak win of the season, setting a record for the women’s professional era.
The match, reminiscent of their intense clash at Wimbledon, included a remarkable game with 13 deuces in the third set. Sabalenka praised Raducanu’s improving form, stating, “I’m happy to see her healthy.” Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, demonstrated resilience and signalled her readiness for the upcoming US Open. Sabalenka will advance to face Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the round of 16.
¡🇧🇾 SABALENKA PUDO CON 🇬🇧 RADUCANU! 👊
En uno de los duelos más atractivos de la jornada, y luego de más de tres horas de batalla, la bielorrusa se impuso ante la británica por 7-6 (3), 4-6 y 7-6 (5).
🇪🇸 Bouzas Maneiro, su rival en octavos de #Cincinnati. pic.twitter.com/UPmQt8kG6Q
— ESPN Tenis (@ESPNtenis) August 11, 2025Other Cincinnati Open 2025 Results
Taylor Fritz advanced by defeating Lorenzo Sonego with a score of 7-6(4), 7-5, taking advantage of a single break point after a power outage delay, according to Reuters. In another match, Anna Kalinskaya upset fifth seed Amanda Anisimova with a score of 7-5, 6-4, marking her third Top 10 win of the season. Former champion Madison Keys dominated Aoi Ito, winning 6-4, 6-0 after recovering from a tightly contested first set.
Sabalenka’s victory solidifies her status as a leading contender, while Raducanu’s performance enhances her prospects for the US Open. The Cincinnati Open highlights both emerging and established talent, with Fritz and Keys bolstering American hopes. These outcomes pave the way for intense competition as the US Open draws near.
Sabalenka’s epic win and other Cincinnati Open results highlight the competitive depth in tennis, shaping player narratives for the US Open. The outcomes influence rankings and fan expectations.
