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Sports
May 10, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Sabalenka Stunned by Cirstea’s Comeback in Italian Open Thriller

AI Summary
World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka suffered a shocking third‑round loss to veteran Sorana Cirstea at the Italian Open, falling 2‑6, 6‑3, 7‑5. The defeat ends Sabalenka’s year‑long streak of deep runs and marks Cirstea’s first victory over a world No.1 as she nears retirement.

Sabalenka’s Unexpected Third‑Round Exit at Rome

World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka was eliminated in the third round of the Italian Open by 36‑year‑old Romanian Sorana Cirstea, losing 2-6, 6-3, 7-5. The defeat ends Sabalenka’s earliest loss in over a year and the first time she has failed to reach a quarter‑final since February 2025.

Cirstea’s Resurgent Performance Turns the Tide

After dropping the opening set, Cirstea rallied with aggressive baseline play, breaking Sabalenka’s serve three times in the second set and holding her nerve in the deciding set. The Romanian, who is on a farewell tour and sits No.14 in the live WTA Race, recorded her first ever win over a world No.1, having lost all 12 previous sets against top‑ranked opponents.

Match Statistics Highlight the Shift

  • Final score: 2-6, 6-3, 7-5
  • Cirstea broke Sabalenka’s serve three times in set two.
  • Sabalenka took a medical timeout for a lower‑back injury in the third set.
  • This was Sabalenka’s first loss before the quarter‑final stage in any tournament since February 2025.

Implications for Sabalenka’s Clay‑Court Campaign

The loss interrupts a dominant start to the season in which Sabalenka won 26 of her first 27 matches, including titles at Indian Wells and Miami. With a lingering back issue and no semi‑final appearance on clay this year, her preparation for the upcoming French Open is now uncertain.

What Lies Ahead for the World No.1 and the Romanian Veteran

Sabalenka has indicated she will take a few days off to recover, aiming to be fit for Roland Garros, though her form remains in question. Cirstea, who will retire at the end of the season, gains a confidence boost that could see her push deeper in Rome and possibly secure a memorable final tournament run.