World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka secured her first Miami Open title, defeating Jessica Pegula in straight sets and joining a select group of players, including Serena Williams, who have achieved remarkable feats at the tournament. Sabalenka’s dominant run and recent victory highlight her growing dominance on hard courts.
Sabalenka Triumphs at Miami Open
Aryna Sabalenka conquered the Miami Open, presented by Itaú, after a commanding 7-5, 6-2 victory over Jessica Pegula. The final, held on March 29, 2025, showcased Sabalenka’s relentless baseline game and powerful serves, solidifying her position at the top of the WTA rankings.
Victory over Pegula
Sabalenka’s victory over Pegula marked her third straight win against the American in a final, having previously defeated her at Cincinnati and the US Open in 2024. The Miami Open win gave Sabalenka a hat trick of Top 10 wins at the tournament, a feat she had not achieved before en route to a title. Throughout the tournament, Sabalenka did not drop a single set, displaying her dominance and control.
A Grueling Tournament
Pegula, despite her tenacity, struggled to counter Sabalenka’s aggressive play. The first set was closely contested, with both players trading breaks. However, Sabalenka seized a crucial break at 6-5 to clinch the set. In the second set, Sabalenka elevated her game, breaking Pegula’s serve twice to take a commanding lead.
Matching Serena Williams’ Miami Record
With her Miami Open victory, Aryna Sabalenka matched a record previously set by Serena Williams. Sabalenka defeated three top-10 players consecutively—Zheng Qinwen, Jasmine Paolini, and Jessica Pegula—without dropping a set, underscoring her dominance.
Serena Williams’ Legacy at the Miami Open
Serena Williams has a storied history at the Miami Open, with a record eight titles. She also holds the record for the most consecutive titles (2002, 2003, 2004, 2013, 2014, 2015). Williams has been an influential figure at the Miami Open. The Miami Open helped raise Serena from a 16-year-old in braids into a powerful woman.
The Elite Club: Other Players with Notable Miami Open Records
Besides Serena Williams, other players have achieved remarkable records at the Miami Open.
Steffi Graf
Steffi Graf has a stellar record at the Miami Open, winning five singles titles. She also achieved the “Sunshine Double” twice, winning both Indian Wells and Miami Open in the same year (1994 and 1996).
Andre Agassi
Andre Agassi holds the record for the most men’s singles titles at the Miami Open, with six victories. Agassi also holds the record for most consecutive titles (2001, 2002, 2003).
Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic has also had considerable success at the Miami Open, with six titles. He also holds the record for most consecutive titles (2014, 2015, 2016).
Sabalenka’s Rise to the Top
Aryna Sabalenka’s journey to the top of women’s tennis has been marked by continuous improvement and resilience. Despite facing setbacks, such as struggles with her serve in the past, Sabalenka has consistently worked on her game, leading to her current dominance.
Key Stats and Achievements
Sabalenka has amassed 10,541 points in the PIF WTA rankings, surpassing Iga Swiatek. She has won more matches this year than any other woman (23), with the most wins in straight sets (20), and has played in more finals (four). Sabalenka holds a 12-2 record against Top 10 players.
Sabalenka’s Miami Open Performance
Sabalenka’s path to the Miami Open title included victories over Viktoriya Tomova, Elena-Gabriela Ruse, Danielle Collins, Qinwen Zheng, and Jasmine Paolini. Sabalenka won the title without dropping a set. She hit 31 winners in the final match.
Expert Opinions on Sabalenka’s Game
Tennis experts have lauded Aryna Sabalenka’s fearless approach and powerful game. Rick Macci, Serena Williams’ former coach, praised Sabalenka’s courage and biomechanics. He highlighted her forehand, backhand, and serve. Pegula said that Sabalenka keeps raising her level in key moments.
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