Photo via BBC Sport

Sabalenka stunned by Bartunkova at China Open

Aryna Sabalenka suffered an unexpected defeat at the hands of Nikola Bartunkova during the WTA 1000 tournament in China, exiting in straight sets with a score of 6-4 6-3. This early exit follows the elimination of top seed Elena Rybakina, marking the first instance since 2015 that the top two seeds missed the round of 16 at this venue.

Bartunkova expressed excitement after defeating the high-ranking player and prepares to meet Sinja Kraus next.

Sabalenka struggled to capitalize on her opportunities during the match, missing all five of her break point chances and showing visible frustration by tossing her racket. The defeat continues a difficult stretch for the world number two, who secured her last title during the March Sunshine Double and will close out the year without claiming a Grand Slam trophy.

Up nextTennis· 31m ago

Sabalenka stunned by Bartunkova at China Open