Aryna Sabalenka Thanks Brazilian Fans After Madrid Comeback Win | 2025 Mutua Madrid Open

Aryna Sabalenka expressed heartfelt gratitude to her growing Brazilian fan base following a hard-fought victory at the 2025 Mutua Madrid Open, as she continues her quest for a third Madrid title.

Aryna Sabalenka Thanks Brazilian Fans After Madrid Comeback Win

Aryna Sabalenka has yet to visit Brazil, but the world No. 1’s expanding fan base brought a piece of Brazil to the Mutua Madrid Open on Sunday.

“Thank you so much, everyone, for coming, watching and supporting us,” Sabalenka said after her three-set victory over Elise Mertens. “Especially my Brazilian support, you guys are the best. Obrigado!”

The connection between Sabalenka and Brazilian fans first sparked last month at the Miami Open. While cheering for their own rising star, Joao Fonseca, Brazilian fans also embraced Sabalenka, presenting her with a shirt that called her “Our Brazilian diva.”

“They're my people,” Sabalenka said during her appearance on the Tennis Channel Live Desk. “I'm almost Brazilian at this point.”

Sabalenka shared photos of her coach, Anton Dubrov, proudly wearing the shirt and rode the positive energy to her first Miami Open title.

Returning to action in Madrid, Sabalenka once again felt the warmth of her Brazilian supporters. Their enthusiastic backing helped her rally past Mertens, a former doubles partner who initially led by a set. Sabalenka ultimately secured the win, 3-6, 6-2, 6-1.

“It’s always tough battles against Elise,” said Sabalenka, who improved her head-to-head record against Mertens to 10-2. “Today, she played incredible tennis, honestly. I had no idea how I was able to turn around this match and bring such a great level in the second and third set. I’m super happy with the win. It was a really tough match.”

Reflecting on her strategy, Sabalenka added, “I was just trying to play point by point, find the rhythm on my serve and on the baseline. The moment I focused on timing and stopped rushing or over-hitting, everything started clicking.”

Looking ahead, Sabalenka plans to recharge before her next match against American Peyton Stearns, as she continues her pursuit of a third Madrid title.

“I think we’re going to visit our friends and they’re going to cook dinner for us, I’m sure a good one,” said Sabalenka. “It’s time to chill after such a tough match.”