Madrid – WTA the road to the semi-finals
Mutua Madrid Open 2026 has taken a dramatic turn on the women’s side, and yesterday’s quarterfinals didn’t just decide the semifinalists—they completely reshaped the narrative of the tournament.
At the center of it all is Hailey Baptiste, who gave what is already being called one of the matches of the season. Amazed American World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 2–6, 6–2, 7–6(6), saving six match points in a stunning comeback that lasted over two and a half hours.
Susan Mullane | Credit: IMAGIN IMAGES
This was not only the biggest win of her career – it was her first win over a Topi 5 the player and the moment that confirmed her arrival at the highest level. The match itself fluctuated wildly: Sabalenka dominated early, Baptiste responded with fearless aggression in the second set and the third became a test of nerves where the American showed remarkable composure under extreme pressure.
Baptiste now moves on to her first WTA 1000 semi-final, where he will face Mirra Andreeva. The young Russian earned her spot with a straight sets victory over Leylah Fernandez, continuing her impressive rise and setting up a fascinating clash between two of the tour’s most fearless players.
In the other half of the draw, Anastasia Potapova continues her improbable run. Entering the tournament as a “lucky loser”, she defeated Karolína Plíšková 6–1, 6–7, 6–3 to reach the semi-finals, becoming the first player in this category to make it this far in a WTA 1000 event. Her ability to stay aggressive while managing momentum swings has made her one of the most dangerous players left in the draw.
Potapova will face Marta Kostyuk, who comes in strong form after a solid straight sets victory over Linda Nosková. Kostyuk’s consistency on clay and tactical discipline contrast sharply with Potapova’s more explosive style, making for a semi-final that could hinge on pace and control.
Watching today’s semifinals, the tournament feels wide open. Baptist vs. Andreeva is a clash of momentum and confidence—one player coming off an emotional, career-defining victory, while the other steadily builds maturity beyond her years. Managing nerves after such a high-intensity quarter-final could be Baptista’s biggest challenge, while Andreeva could look to exploit any emotional or physical slump.
On the other hand, Potapova vs. Kostyuk presents a different dynamic: unpredictability over structure. Potapova has already proven she can survive chaotic matches, while Kostyuk can try to establish order and extend rallies to draw errors.
With the top seeds now out and no clear favorites left, Madrid are now guaranteed a new champion. What started out as a tournament shaped by expectations has turned into one fueled by possibility – and heading into the semi-finals, it looks like anything is still possible.
