World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has declared herself “stronger than ever” as she targets a career-best clay-court season at the 2025 Italian Open, aiming to claim the elusive Rome title. Fresh off her third Madrid Open triumph, where she defeated Coco Gauff 6-3, 7-6(3) on May 3, Sabalenka boasts a 10-1 clay record this season, with her only loss to Jelena Ostapenko in Stuttgart. Her dominant 6-2, 6-2 victory over Anastasia Potapova in the second round in Rome on May 9, completed in just 63 minutes, underscored her formidable form. “Right now, I’m stronger than ever, physically and mentally, and my game has improved a lot,” Sabalenka said, expressing confidence in her evolved playstyle.[]
Sabalenka’s clay-court evolution is evident in her expanded arsenal. Known for her relentless forehands and powerful serves, she has incorporated drop shots, backhand slices, and net play, as seen in her tactical dismantling of Potapova. “I’ve got everything to be a good player on clay,” she told Tennis.com, emphasizing her physical readiness and variety. Her 2024 Rome runner-up finish and 2023 Madrid title highlight her growing prowess, though Rome remains unconquered, with a third-round exit to Sofia Kenin in 2023 as a rare blemish. Facing Kenin next, Sabalenka is motivated to reverse their 1-3 head-to-head, saying, “That’s a good revenge then”.
Despite Iga Swiatek’s clay dominance, Sabalenka’s 1-5 record against her includes a near-win in the 2023 Madrid final, signaling her competitiveness. Her mental growth, honed by working with a sports psychologist and embracing calmer on-court demeanor, complements her physicality. Posts on X, like @Tenisalmaximo’s, celebrated her “contundente” Rome start. Sabalenka’s ambition extends beyond Rome, with Roland Garros in sight, where she reached the 2024 semifinals. Balancing power with finesse, she aims to “look back on the clay season and be super proud”. With her team, including coach Anton Dubrov, pushing for further improvements, Sabalenka is poised for a historic run.
