Sabalenka Dominates as Gauff Advances in Miami Open Thriller

Miami Gardens, Fla. — Aryna Sabalenka began her quest for the Miami Open title with a commanding 6-3, 6-0 victory over Bulgaria’s Viktoriya Tomova on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The world No. 1 exhibited her powerful serve and hitting ability, finishing the match in just 58 minutes.

After a slow start that saw Sabalenka drop her serve in the opening game, she quickly regained control, winning the next six consecutive games to take the first set. Tomova struggled against Sabalenka’s relentless attacking style, which produced an impressive 32 winners throughout the match.

“I cannot complain about my season,” Sabalenka told reporters after the match. “Of course, I lost the two biggest finals. But it’s only a lesson, not that big of a loss, to be honest. I feel like my tennis is getting better every day.”

Sabalenka, who has claimed seven WTA 1000 titles but is yet to secure a victory in Miami, aims to change that this year. She will face Romanian qualifier Elena-Gabriela Ruse in the third round, who advanced by defeating Magdalena Frech in straight sets.

“Of course, Miami, there is only one thing everyone wants here is to win the title,” she added. “I really hope I can play the same way I played at Indian Wells and improve in the finals.”

On the other side of the draw, Coco Gauff also showed her prowess by defeating fellow American Alison Riske 6-0, 6-0 in just 47 minutes. Gauff demonstrated remarkable precision, converting six out of nine break points and winning 84% of her first-serve points.

“I was definitely playing well today, and maybe she wasn’t playing her peak great tennis,” Gauff reflected. “I don’t think anyone who is playing their best tennis will have that scoreline today, so I’m not going to sit here and say she played her best tennis.”

This marked a strong start for both players in Miami, as Gauff looks to capture her first Miami Open title while Sabalenka aims to solidify her position as the top player in the world.

Meanwhile, in the men’s draw, Jannik Sinner earned his first ATP Masters 1000 win since 2022, defeating American wild card Mackenzie McDonald 6-3, 7-6(4). Sinner will face the Indian Wells finalist next, as he makes his push in the tournament.

“I feel good moving into the next match,” Sinner said. “I just need to keep my focus and build on this momentum.”

As the tournament progresses, the focus returns to the upcoming matchups, where both Sabalenka and Gauff will aim to further their runs at the prestigious event.