'It wasn't an easy match' - Aryna Sabalenka opens up after storming into pre-quarters of Indian Wells 2025

Tennis sensation and WTA number one Aryna Sabalenka storms into the pre-quarters of the Indian Wells 2025 after defeating Lucia Bronzetti by 6-1, 6-2 in the third round. The star player is set to face Sonay Kartal in the Round 16 of the ATP 1000 Masters and will be looking to dominate the game to seal the quarter-final berth.

Coming to the game dynamics, the Belarusian had a great start, completely outplaying Bronzetti with her skill set. The 26-year-old Tennis player continued her form in the following set, producing excellent points with backhand and forehand volley shots to mark a straight-sets win in the clash.

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What makes Indian Wells so special?

Meanwhile, Sabalenka has revealed that conditions were extremely tough in her Round of 32 clash due to court changes. She further hailed her opponent, who gave her a tough fight in the game, for which she faced a challenge at every point. The star player further praised Indian Wells' conditions and crowd.

Sabalenka after beating Bronzetti at Indian Wells

“What makes Indian Wells so special?

Aryna: “The view is incredible. Every time you practice out there you feel like you’re in heaven. It feels like home away from home.” ❤️

pic.twitter.com/IJOJSxu1TN

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 10, 2025

"Conditions were tough today. She played an incredible match. The score looks easy, but it wasn't an easy match. I had to fight for every point. The view is incredible. Every time you practice out there you feel like you’re in heaven. It feels like home away from home," Sabalenka said after the match.

Check out the match details and head-to-head records of Aryna Sabalenka vs. Sonay Kartal ahead of pre-quarters

Match Details

Fixture: (1) Aryna Sabalenka vs (LL) Sonay Kartal
Date: March 12, 2025
Tournament: BNP Paribas Open 2025
Round: Fourth Round (Round of 16)
Venue: Indian Wells Tennis Garden, California, United States
Category: WTA 1000
Surface: Hard
Prize Money: $9,693,540
Live Telecast: USA - Tennis Channel | UK - Sky Sports | Canada - TSN

Aryna Sabalenka vs Sonay Kartal head-to-head

The head-to-head between the two currently stands at 0-0 as they have not had any prior encounters on the WTA Tour.

Also Read: 'Feels like a Grand Slam Final' - WATCH: Aryna Sabalenka's post win antics steal the show at Indian Wells 2025