Nikola Bartunkova Upsets Aryna Sabalenka at China Open

At the China Open, world number two Aryna Sabalenka suffered a surprising defeat to 34th-ranked Nikola Bartunkova, who won with a score of 6-4, 6-3. This loss follows the earlier exit of top seed Elena Rybakina, who was defeated by world number 118 Alina Charaeva.

Bartunkova expressed her happiness at defeating Sabalenka, stating, “I focused on myself, to be calm,” and noted Sabalenka's legendary status. This outcome is significant as it marks the first time since 2015 that the top two seeds have not reached the round of 16 at the China Open.

Sabalenka has not won a title since her victories at Indian Wells and the Miami Open in March and will finish the year without a Grand Slam trophy for the first time since 2022. She struggled during the match, failing to convert any of her five break points and displaying frustration by throwing her racquet after losing a break early in the second set.