4th time unlucky: Sabalenka stunned by Ostapenko in Stuttgart final

World No. 24 Jelena Ostapenko pulled off a sensational upset at the 2025 Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-4 6-1 in a commanding final to lift her ninth career title — and her first of the season. It was also her first victory over the Belarusian in their four career meetings.

For Sabalenka, the loss marked her fourth defeat in a Stuttgart final in the last five years.

Ostapenko came out firing, grabbing an early 2-0 lead and holding it until 4-3. Sabalenka then earned her first break points of the match, converting the second to level at 4-4. But the Latvian didn’t flinch — attacking relentlessly and breaking right back after a tense deuce game. Though she showed a flash of impatience and missed a backhand crosscourt on her second set point, Ostapenko made no mistake on the third, sealing the opener as Sabalenka sent a forehand long.

The second set started with exchanged breaks, but from 1-1, Ostapenko took complete control. She reeled off five consecutive games, showing no signs of letting up. At one point, she won 15 of 17 points, racing ahead to a 4-1 30-0 lead. Sabalenka struggled to find rhythm on serve, winning just 18% of points behind her first delivery in the second set. On match point, Ostapenko delivered a stunning crosscourt forehand return to cap off the win in style.

In total, Ostapenko struck 21 winners to Sabalenka’s 19, keeping her unforced errors low at just 8 compared to Sabalenka’s 10.

After the trophy ceremony, Ostapenko was all smiles as she took a celebratory drive in her brand-new orange Porsche Macan Turbo — the traditional prize for the champion, on top of €142,610. Sabalenka, who was interviewed post-match by Andrea Petkovic, handled the defeat with humor and grace despite her Stuttgart curse. “Enjoy driving this beautiful car,” she quipped to Ostapenko, adding with a grin, “I’m glad I can afford this car. After this final, I’m gonna order one — because I guess that’s the only way for me.”

Ostapenko’s triumph capped off a stellar week in Stuttgart. On her way to the title, she not only took down Sabalenka, but also ousted five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek, Dayana Yastremska, Emma Navarro, and Ekaterina Alexandrova. Confident and composed throughout the tournament, Ostapenko reminded the tennis world of her explosive game and her ability to beat anyone when she’s on.