Aryna Sabalenka Shocked by Early Exit at Italian Open

Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one and pre-tournament favorite, faced a shocking third-round exit at the Italian Open in Rome on Saturday, losing to Sorana Cirstea with a score of 2-6, 6-3, 7-5. Sabalenka displayed visible frustration during the match, muttering to herself and showing signs of a shoulder slump, indicative of an uncharacteristically sloppy performance.

This defeat marks her first exit before the quarter-finals since the Qatar Open in February of the previous year. Sabalenka had initially looked set for a quick victory after winning the first set but faltered in the subsequent sets.

Cirstea will face Linda Noskova in the next round. Additionally, Sabalenka's performance raises concerns about her fitness, particularly regarding a left hip issue, ahead of the upcoming Roland Garros.

In other matches, Coco Gauff advanced after defeating Solana Sierra, while Jasmin Paolini's title defense ended early with a loss to Elis Mertens.