World number one Aryna Sabalenka reaches the semifinals of the WTA 500 Berlin Open after rallying from the edge of defeat to beat Czech player Nikola Bartunkova on Friday. Both outlets report that Bartunkova takes control early, winning the first set 6-2 and building a commanding lead in the second set, where she reportedly leads 4-0. Sabalenka then turns the match around by recovering her rhythm and winning the second set in a tiebreak, 7-6 (7/2). She follows with a 6-4 win in the third set to seal the victory.
The match is played in hot conditions in Berlin, described as sweltering by one report. Sabalenka’s comments indicate she recognizes Bartunkova’s early dominance and focuses on staying in the contest, later referring to her comeback as fortunate. With the win, Sabalenka advances to the last four of the tournament, which is often viewed as part of the grass-court lead-up season.
