In a thrilling encounter at the 2025 Miami Open, Aryna Sabalenka showcased her top-ranked talent, defeating defending champion Danielle Collins with a score of 6-4, 6-4 on the afternoon of March 24, 2025. Sabalenka's performance propelled her into the quarter-finals, further extending her dominance over Collins, making it a total of seven consecutive victories against the American.
From the outset, Sabalenka proved her might, breaking Collins' serve early in the match. Despite a valiant attempt by Collins, who broke back in the sixth game of the first set to equalize, the Belarusian quickly regained control and took the opener in just 35 minutes. Sabalenka's first serve was formidable, boasting a success rate of 68%, which greatly contributed to her overall effectiveness on the court.
The second set saw Sabalenka ramping up the pressure. She broke Collins' serve again in the opening game and continued to dominate, showcasing her fierce forehand and aggressive playing style. After a total of 23 winners, Sabalenka sealed the match on her third match point, finally converting after having missed two earlier opportunities. The match lasted a brisk 78 minutes, during which Collins struggled with 30 unforced errors compared to Sabalenka's balanced 12.
Sabalenka attributed her success to a solid serving game and relentless returning. “I think I served pretty well, and until the end of the second set, I was returning it pretty well and put so much pressure on her,” said Sabalenka post-match. “It’s always intense matches against Danielle.”
Now, with this victory under her belt, Sabalenka is set to face Zheng Qinwen, the No. 9 seed, who advanced after defeating Ashlyn Krueger. The matchup promises to be compelling, as Zheng has historically struggled against Sabalenka, losing all five of their previous encounters. The upcoming quarter-final will be important for both players, particularly for Zheng, who seeks to turn the tide in their rivalry.
Sabalenka's win at the Miami Open marks her 26th quarter-final appearance at WTA 1000 events, demonstrating her consistency and skill at this level. This performance ties her with legendary player Maria Sharapova, who previously reached the same milestone in fewer attempts at the 2018 Madrid Open, specifically on her 46th match. This sets a high benchmark for Sabalenka as she continues her career.
In terms of historical achievements, Sabalenka has been remarkably efficient in her journey this season, dropping only 12 games to reach the women's singles quarter-finals, a figure that places her in the elite company of Iga Swiatek and Serena Williams, who dropped nine and eleven games, respectively, in their outstanding runs in previous years.
Other results from the Miami WTA 1000 included Jasmine Paolini's impressive come-back to defeat Naomi Osaka with a score of 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, and Taylor Fritz, the highest-ranked American player, who overcame Denis Shapovalov with a score of 7-5, 6-3 in his Round of 32 match.
As the tournament progresses, the stakes grow higher for Sabalenka and her competitors. With her sights firmly set on the title, the top seed continues to demonstrate that she is a formidable force on the WTA tour. As fans eagerly anticipate the next round, the Miami Open promises a thrilling continuation of high-stakes tennis.
