Sorana Cîrstea’s comeback win over Aryna Sabalenka highlights a thriving farewell season
· The South African
World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka experienced a shock early-round upset on Saturday at the Foro Italico, at the hands of an opponent approaching retirement.
The Belarusian seemed to struggle with her positioning, at times visibly in pain, which restricted her movement.
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Stayed composed
Despite a spirited effort and clinching the first set, Sabalenka was outclassed in the third-round match of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia by a calm and confident world No 27 Sorana Cîrstea of Romania who stayed composed under pressure and produced a remarkable comeback from being a set and a break down, to turn the match around and clinch it in three sets, 2-6, 6-3, 7-5.
For Aryna Sabalenka, this third-round loss comes at the back of a quarter-final exit just a week ago in Madrid.
These results on clay will no doubt be a cause for concern for Team Sabalenka and her preparations for Roland Garros later this month.
Her fitness remains in question, as she struggled with a lower-back issue during the match, needing a medical time out for some physiotherapy.
It remains to be seen whether Sabalenka will recover in time for the first Grand Slam of the season.
Elaborated on the injury
At her post-match press conference, Aryna Sabalenka elaborated on the issue.
“I’d say that probably it’s like my lower back, connected to the hip, which kind of like limiting me from the full rotation. I guess we just going to have some days off. We’re going to spend it on recovery. That’s the plan I believe for now”.
Sorana Cîrstea will have much to be jubilant about with this win.
It is the first time that the 36-year-old Romanian has defeated a world No 1 player, which she has done at the end of her career.
She recently announced her retirement, making this season her last swansong.
If she continues on this trajectory, it will end on a high with many positive memories to look back on, including the ability to penetrate Sabalenka’s biggest weapon – her serve.
Biggest weapon
The Romanian managed to break her opponent’s serve six times throughout the match, a shot that has now become the Belarusian’s biggest weapon since her team have made strides in improving this, particularly over the last two years.
She gained momentum in the second-set comeback, thanks to deeper shot placement keeping the 5-foot-11 Sabalenka at the back of the court, and denying her any pace or opportunity.
Aryna Sabalenka acknowledged the incredibly high level of tennis produced by her victor, even advocating for Cîrstea to remain on the tour.
“She’s a fighter. It’s kind of like it’s sad to see her leaving because I feel like she’s one of those players that’s fighting no matter what. I felt like she could stay for longer. It’s her choice. We all respect that. I just wish her the best season to finish her career”.
Worked hard
After the match, Cîrstea spoke of how hard she had worked for this last season.
“Aryna is an amazing player. I thought I played really well today. I’m working really, really hard. It’s nice to have this result as payoff.”
Cîrstea is certainly making the best of her last season. She is also competing in the doubles section of the tournament, partnering with fellow countrywoman, Jacqueline Cristian.
Sorana Cîrstea next faces world No 13 Linda Nosková in the Round of 16.
Amisha Savani is reporting exclusively for The South African from the Internazionali BNL d’Italia at the Foro Italico, Rome