Jelena Ostapenko delivered a stunning performance to defeat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets at the Stuttgart Open on Monday. The unseeded Latvian claimed a 6-4, 6-1 victory, securing the ninth title of her career and her first on clay since winning the French Open in 2017.
Ostapenko, ranked 24th in the world, dominated the match from the outset, breaking Sabalenka’s serve early and maintaining her momentum throughout. She converted her first match point with a powerful forehand winner, lifting her first WTA singles trophy since February last year.
“It’s great to share the court with you—you’re a champion,” Ostapenko said to Sabalenka during the on-court interview. She added with a smile, “I’m sure you hate me now because you wanted this car so badly, but I’m sure you’ll get it another time,” referring to the Porsche car awarded to the tournament winner.
The loss marks Sabalenka’s fourth defeat in the Stuttgart final over the past five seasons. The 26-year-old Belarusian, a three-time Grand Slam champion who won the US Open and Australian Open in 2023 and 2024 respectively, continues her quest for a clay-court title since her triumph at the Madrid Open in 2023.
Ostapenko’s victory signals a significant comeback on clay courts, boosting her confidence ahead of the upcoming Roland Garros. “Winning here means a lot to me,” she said. “Clay is a surface I love, and I hope to keep this momentum going.”
