Swiatek takes the lead in Madrid after a hard-fought first set

Favored to win, the world number one takes the set against a Sabalenka who gives nothing away. The level was high at the start of the match. The world's two best players go head-to-head in a high-flying final.

After breaking the Belarusian in the very first game, Iga Swieatek lost her lead in the minutes that followed. With the tension palpable, the world number 1 broke again (5-5) and capitalized to take the set (7-5).

If Sabalenka is to retain her title, she will have to redouble her efforts against a very strong opponent.