The highly anticipated second-round match at the Berlin Open between world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and Switzerland’s Rebeka Masarova was suspended midway on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The decision, citing slippery court conditions and waning daylight, sparked frustration from Sabalenka and has led to a debate in the tennis community.
Sabalenka Dominates First Set
Aryna Sabalenka, who recently reached the French Open final, started her grass-court season in strong form. She quickly asserted her dominance, taking the first set against Rebeka Masarova with a convincing 6-2 score. Sabalenka appeared to be in full control and was looking to close out the match efficiently.
Match Halted Due to Court Conditions
Following the conclusion of the first set, the match was suddenly suspended. The official reason provided by the tournament organizers was a combination of increasing humidity making the grass courts slippery and fading daylight. However, the decision was heavily influenced by a request from Rebeka Masarova, who complained about the slippery conditions on her side of the court.
Sabalenka’s Frustration and Protest
The suspension was met with visible frustration from Aryna Sabalenka. She engaged in a heated exchange with the officials, arguing vehemently to continue play. Sabalenka was heard questioning the decision, stating, “You’re stopping the match because she said that side is slippery? I just played 2 games on that side!” Her sentiment suggested that Masarova’s request might have been a tactic given she was losing the match.
Andy Roddick Weighs In
Former American tennis player Andy Roddick publicly backed Sabalenka’s stance, suggesting that Masarova might have intentionally sought the suspension after losing the first set. Roddick commented that the conditions “favored Masarova zero” and that she “just wanted the exit door.” He also drew a parallel to a past experience of his own, where he admitted to halting a Wimbledon match not due to conditions, but because he didn’t want to play another set.
The match is scheduled to resume on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Sabalenka will be looking to maintain her momentum from the first set and secure her spot in the quarterfinals of the Berlin Open. The winner of this match will face either Katerina Siniakova or Elena Rybakina.
