Thu May 01 21:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Sabalenka Survives Rain Delay, Kostyuk’s Challenge to Reach Madrid Semifinals
**Madrid, Spain** – Aryna Sabalenka battled past a determined Marta Kostyuk in a thrilling quarterfinal match at the Mutua Madrid Open, securing a hard-fought 7-6, 7-6 victory. The match, which lasted 2 hours and 32 minutes, was a rollercoaster of intense rallies and dramatic twists.
Kostyuk, playing exceptionally well, had opportunities to take the first set, serving at 5-4 before Sabalenka broke back with a stunning drop shot. The second set was equally tight, culminating in a tiebreak where Kostyuk held two set points. However, a rain delay added another layer of tension. Upon the resumption, Sabalenka displayed her championship mettle, denying Kostyuk and eventually securing the win.
“The important thing was to win. This was not about tennis, it was about emotions and I’m proud of how I handled them,” Sabalenka said post-match, acknowledging the emotional intensity of the contest.
The victory marks Sabalenka’s fourth semifinal appearance in Madrid, tying her with Petra Kvitova and Simona Halep for the most semifinal appearances in the tournament’s history. She will now face Elina Svitolina in the semifinals, setting up another highly anticipated clash. The world number one proved her dominance once again, showcasing her resilience and skill under pressure.
First Piper 