Despite reaching the Stuttgart final for the fourth time and having been runner-up in three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023, Sabalenka couldn’t seal the deal. The world No. 1 was defeated by Latvia’s Ostapenko in straight sets, 6-4, 6-1, continuing her streak of near-misses at the tournament.
On court after the match, Sabalenka congratulated her opponent and lightheartedly accepted her fate:
“You played really great this week and you were a better player than me today. Well done and enjoy driving this beautiful car! I’m glad I can afford this car. After this final, we’re gonna order one — because I guess that’s the only way for me to get it!”
Sabalenka had expressed her determination to finally take home the Porsche this year, saying before the tournament:
“I lost three finals here against No. 1s. So I was like, ‘Okay, I have to do it. I have to come back here as world No. 1.’ I want to finally win the Porsche this year.”
Her journey to the final included a walkover against Anastasia Potapova, followed by wins over Elise Mertens and Jasmine Paolini. However, her hopes were dashed once again by a commanding performance from Ostapenko, who claimed the WTA 500 title for the first time.
Ostapenko playfully acknowledged Sabalenka’s frustration in her victory speech:
“Congrats Aryna on a great week. I think you hate me now because you wanted this car so badly! It’s great to share the court with you — you’re such a champion.”
Sabalenka will have to wait another year if she hopes to win the Stuttgart title — or she’ll just have to follow through on that Porsche purchase.
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