Sabalenka squeezes out a win on sixth match point in Cincinnati

In a thrilling Cincinnati Masters match, top seed Aryna Sabalenka clinched a victory on the sixth match point against Talia Gibson, advancing to the third round. The world number one, who previously won the Cincinnati trophy in 2024, faced a challenging opponent. Gibson, representing Australia, saved five match points in the 12th game of the second set before Sabalenka ultimately secured the win with a final winner.

The grueling match lasted just under two hours, taking place on a windswept Grandstand Court. Sabalenka acknowledged the physical toll of the game, attributing it to the unpredictable weather conditions. Despite Gibson's aggressive play and increased pressure on Sabalenka's service games, the Belarusian player remained composed and managed to stay in the match.

Sabalenka, who had previously won three titles in 2026, is now looking forward to a strong run-up to the US Open, where she aims to claim her first Grand Slam title of the year. Other notable entrants joining Sabalenka in the third round include reigning Grand Slam champions Elena Rybakina and Mirra Andreeva.