By Leo Canaparo Founder and director TENNIS7.NET
Aryna Sabalenka, born on May 5, 1998, in Minsk, Belarus, has become one of the most dominant players in women’s tennis. Known for her powerful groundstrokes and aggressive playing style, Sabalenka has risen to the top of the WTA rankings, capturing multiple Grand Slam and WTA 1000 titles throughout her career.
Her journey at the Miami Open has been a story of persistence and growth. In her early years, she struggled to make deep runs in the tournament, often facing early exits against top opponents. However, her game continued to develop, and she gradually became a strong contender on hard courts.
Sabalenka’s breakthrough moment in Miami came in 2024 when she reached the final for the first time. She displayed an outstanding level of tennis, defeating top-ranked opponents like Jasmine Paolini and Zheng Qinwen without dropping a set. In the championship match, she faced Jessica Pegula, a familiar rival in high-stakes matches. With a mix of power and precision, Sabalenka claimed the title with a 7-5, 6-2 victory, marking her first Miami Open triumph.
This victory was a milestone in her career, solidifying her reputation as a force on the WTA Tour. It also made her the third world No. 1 in history to reach the finals of the Australian Open, Indian Wells, and Miami in the same year.
Sabalenka’s success in Miami is a testament to her relentless work ethic and competitive spirit. From early exits to lifting the trophy, her journey in the tournament reflects her evolution into one of the most dominant players of her generation.