Maya Joint and Carlota Martinez Cirez squared off in the first round of the Mutua Madrid Open on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, in a match that showcased the resilience and skill of both players. The match took place on COURT 5, and fans were treated to a competitive encounter as Joint emerged victorious with a final score of 6-2, 2-6, 6-4.
This contest marked the second time these two athletes faced each other, with Joint holding the advantage in their head-to-head record, now leading 2-0. Their previous encounter took place in 2024 during the W35 Santo Domingo quarterfinals, where Joint also claimed victory with a decisive 6-2, 6-3 scoreline.
Joint, currently ranked no. 78, entered the match with an impressive 2025 record of 22 wins and 10 losses, demonstrating her prowess particularly on clay courts, where she boasted a 2-0 record this year. Her journey to the main draw in Madrid began in the qualifications, where she defeated Belen Teichmann in straight sets, 7-6(2), 6-1, showcasing her aggressive play by scoring 31 winners throughout the match.
In her latest match against Martinez Cirez, Joint displayed her trademark fighting spirit. The Australian started strong, taking the first set 6-2, but Martinez Cirez, ranked no. 244, fought back in the second set, leveling the match with a 6-2 win of her own. However, Joint regained her composure in the deciding set, ultimately clinching the match 6-4.
Joint's performance throughout the match was marked by her strategic serving and ability to convert break points. She put 65% of her first serves in and won 66% of the points on her first serve, while also managing to save three break points against her. Despite losing her serve three times during the match, her overall aggression and tactical play proved too much for Martinez Cirez.
For Martinez Cirez, this match was a significant opportunity to showcase her abilities on a grand stage. Despite the loss, she demonstrated great skill and determination, particularly in the second set where she found her rhythm and capitalized on Joint's errors. Martinez Cirez entered the match with a 2025 record of 5-11, including a 4-6 record on clay, and her overall career record stands at 222 wins to 141 losses.
Before facing Joint, Martinez Cirez had participated in the W100 Madrid event, where she lost in the second round to Bassols, 6-4, 6-2. However, her performance against Joint indicated that she is capable of competing at a higher level, and she will likely use this experience to build on her future matches.
As the match unfolded, the crowd witnessed a display of high-level tennis, with both players exchanging powerful groundstrokes and deft volleys. Joint's ability to adapt her game and maintain focus under pressure was evident, especially in the final set where she broke Martinez Cirez's serve crucially to secure the win.
Joint's record over the past four years has been impressive, with a win-loss ratio of 67% (98-49), and she is now looking to advance further in the tournament. Her best performances this year include reaching the semifinals in both Hobart and Cancun, setting a positive tone for her ongoing campaign in Madrid.
Following this victory, Joint will be looking forward to her next match, where she hopes to continue her momentum and capitalize on her strong form. The Australian has proven to be a formidable opponent on clay, and with her current trajectory, she is expected to be a tough contender in the later rounds of the Mutua Madrid Open.
As for Martinez Cirez, while this match may not have ended in her favor, it serves as a valuable experience against a higher-ranked opponent. With her history of strong performances on clay, she will certainly be looking to bounce back and improve her standings in future tournaments.
Overall, the match between Maya Joint and Carlota Martinez Cirez was a thrilling display of talent, determination, and competitive spirit, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.
