In the past, Sabalenka became a Madrid champion after beating Ashleigh Barty in the 2021 Madrid final. Two years later, she lifted her second title at the tournament. Last year, the world No. 1 fell just short of winning the title after losing to Iga Swiatek in the final.

Coco Gauff dismantled defending champion Iga Swiatek 6-1 6-1 on Thursday with a ruthless display to storm into her first Madrid Open final, where she will face world number one Aryna Sabalenka for the WTA 1000 title.