In a stunning semifinal at the Berlin Open on June 21, 2025, Czech left‑hander Markéta Vondroušová, ranked No. 164, overcame world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets, 6–2, 6–4, to reach her first final since her historic 2023 Wimbledon title.
Swift Domination from the First Serve
Vondroušová set the tone early, breaking Sabalenka twice in the first set while saving both break points she faced. The Czech’s powerful serve and calm composure helped her close the set 6–2 in just over 40 minutes.
In the second set, both players exchanged breaks before Sabalenka leveled at 4–4. But it was Vondroušová’s resilience under pressure—breaking for 5–4 and clinching the match on her first match point with an ace—that sealed the deal.
A Milestone Win Against a Reigning Number One
Although Vondroušová had previously beaten Sabalenka, this was her first-ever win over a reigning world No. 1, marking a significant personal milestone.
Context: A Comeback in Full Swing
Once ranked as high as No. 6, Vondroušová suffered a shoulder injury that sidelined her for three months in 2024. Returning unseeded, her run to the final underscores her physical resurgence and mental resilience.
Reflecting on her journey, she said:
“I didn’t play for a long time… I’m just so happy to be back healthy and so grateful to play these matches.”.
The Opponent: Wang Xinyu’s Breakout
Vondroušová will face Chinese qualifier Wang Xinyu in Sunday’s final. Wang, ranked No. 49, also enjoyed a breakout tournament, defeating Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets to reach her first WTA final. Her path included a stunning win over Coco Gauff in the round of 16, showcasing a fearless approach.
Grass-Court Credentials & Momentum
Vondroušová has proven to be a formidable grass-court player. In 2023, she became the first unseeded player—and lowest-ranked at No. 42—to win Wimbledon, solidifying her reputation on grass.
This Berlin performance, especially against Sabalenka, should make her a player to watch as Wimbledon draws near.
Match Statistics: Control vs Pressures
| Statistic | Vondroušová | Sabalenka |
|---|---|---|
| Unforced errors | 12 | 30 |
| Break points faced | 2 | Several |
| First-serve aces | Key match point ace | N/A |
Vondroušová’s sharp game control and error discipline contrasted sharply with Sabalenka’s 30 unforced errors, illustrating a clean execution under pressure.
What This Means Going Forward
- Boosted confidence: A win over the world No. 1 adds immense belief, especially heading into a tournament as prestigious as Wimbledon.
- Proving her comeback: After injury setbacks, this run serves as undeniable proof of Vondroušová’s return to top form.
- A battle of styles: Facing Wang—an accurate and fearless baseliner—promises a compelling final.
Final Takeaway
Markéta Vondroušová’s straight-sets defeat of Aryna Sabalenka at the Berlin Open marks a career-defining moment. A former Grand Slam champion now fully healthy, she enters Sunday’s final against Wang Xinyu as the favorite—and a top contender as Wimbledon approaches.
