Bencic Triumphs on Daughter’s Birthday at Madrid Open

Madrid, Spain – In a dominant display, Belinda Bencic defeated Zeynep Sonmez 6-0, 6-2 in the first round of the 2025 Mutua Madrid Open on April 23. The match marked a significant moment for Bencic as she celebrated her daughter Bella’s first birthday with this remarkable victory.

Ranked No. 42 globally, Bencic, who returned from maternity leave last October, showcased her improving form after a title win in Abu Dhabi earlier this year. Her experience on the clay courts of Madrid proved crucial as she secured the first set in just 26 minutes, overwhelming Sonmez.

On the other hand, Sonmez entered the tournament ranked No. 77 and brought momentum from a strong qualifying round where she defeated Varvara Lepchenko 6-2, 6-2. However, against Bencic, she struggled to find her rhythm, with the Swiss player breaking her to lead 4-2 in the second set.

Bencic’s victory not only highlights her skill but also her resolve to compete at a high level after becoming a mother. Analysts noted her as a strong contender for the tournament, with odds around $1.36 for her next match against No. 20 seed Clara Tauson.

While Sonmez faced a setback, her performance during the qualifying rounds indicated her potential to challenge higher-ranked players. Looking to the future, she is likely to learn from this experience and continue to develop her game.

This match adds to the excitement of the Madrid Open, known for its competitive field and thrilling tennis action. With many first-round matches still to be played, fans are eager to see how Bencic will navigate the rest of the tournament.

The victory on her daughter’s birthday emphasizes Bencic’s resilience as she manages both motherhood and her professional ambitions, highlighting the balance many athletes strive to achieve.