Elena Rybakina advanced to the last 16 of the French Open on Saturday with a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Belgium's Elise Mertens.
Second seed Aryna Sabalenka temporarily put her friendship with Spaniard Paula Badosa on the back burner to secure a hard-fought 7-5 6-1 third-round victory at the French Open on Saturday and keep alive her hopes of a maiden Roland Garros title.The pair have enjoyed a strong bond since 2021 but there was no quarter given in a see-sawing first set as they swapped early breaks before Badosa attacked Sabalenka's powerful serve in the sixth game, edging ahead with a return that hit the net cord.
Last year's semifinalist hit a monster forehand to go up 6-5 and came up with a delightful backhand slice from the deep en route to closing out the opening set, as world number 139 Badosa reflected on her missed opportunities. Sabalenka produced a superb drop to set up match point and the knockout blow came in the form of an unforced error from the racket of Badosa but was immediately followed by a warm hug at the net.Elena Rybakina advanced to the last 16, with a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Belgium's Elise Mertens.
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