Tauson Advances to Face Sabalenka in Thrilling Dubai Rematch

Dubai, United Arab Emirates — Clara Tauson of Denmark secured her place in the round of 16 at the WTA-1000 tournament in Dubai after a tense 7-6, 3-6, 7-6 victory over former two-time champion Elina Svitolina on Tuesday evening. The match set the stage for a highly anticipated rematch against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, who is looking to redeem herself after defeating Tauson at the Australian Open earlier this year.

The match was delayed for nearly seven hours due to rain, forcing Tauson and Svitolina to wait until approximately 10 p.m. local time to begin their battle. Despite a second-set setback, the 22-year-old Tauson showed resilience, battling back to claim the final set in a nail-biting tiebreak.

“I just focused on staying in the moment and not letting the pressure get to me,” Tauson said after the match. “It was a tough match, and I fought hard every point.”

With this victory, Tauson earns a shot at Sabalenka, who advanced by defeating Veronika Kudermetova 6-3, 6-4. The exact timing for their match has not yet been announced, but it will take place on Center Court.

The upcoming encounter is particularly charged as Tauson seeks payback for her earlier loss to Sabalenka in the third round of the Australian Open, where she lost 7-6, 6-4. “I remember that match vividly,” Tauson noted. “I had my chances, and I didn’t take them. This time, I’m determined to make the most of every opportunity.”

In a separate development, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka expressed frustration following her recent loss and attributed her early exit from the Dubai Championships to a lack of focus. “I’ve not done well in the Middle East the last couple of years,” she said. “It’s frustrating because I know I can play better.” Sabalenka, who has struggled for form after starting the season strong in Brisbane, emphasized the need for changes in her preparation.

“Every time I’m out here, I don’t feel well. I’m not hungry to compete,” Sabalenka added. “I’m trying to find that competitive edge again.”

Meanwhile, Tauson is embracing the underdog role and feels liberated going into the match against the top-ranked player. “I’m really free in my mind,” she reflected. “I can just enjoy it; I have nothing to lose.”

As the excitement builds for this rematch, fans will be eager to see if Tauson can capitalize on her momentum against the seasoned and formidable Sabalenka in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.