ROME — World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka suffered a stunning third-round loss to Sorana Cirstea on the Italian Open on Saturday.
Sabalenka seemed to be heading for victory with a 2-0 lead within the set, however Twenty sixth-ranked Cirstea got here from behind to win 2-6, 6-3, 7-5.
It was the 36-year-old Romanian’s first win towards the world No. 1, who’s taking part in his ultimate skilled season.
“I am very, very joyful,” Cirstea stated with an enormous smile. “Arina is a good participant. I believe she performed rather well at the moment. She labored actually laborious and I am glad this consequence paid off.”
Sabalenka was apparently affected by decrease again ache and requested a medical timeout for therapy whereas shedding 4-3 within the ultimate set.
It was the second consecutive shock exit for Sabalenka, who was upset by American Haley Baptiste within the Madrid Open quarterfinals final week.
Cirstea will subsequent face Linda Noskova within the spherical of 16.
Defending champion Jasmine Paolini was additionally absent. The Italian misplaced to Elise Mertens 4-6, 7-6 (5), 6-3 within the third spherical, losing three match factors.
