Ana Ivanovic picks the winner between Iga Swiatek & Aryna Sabalenka in 'really close' Madrid Open 2024 final

With Iga Swiatek set to take on Aryna Sabalenka in the final of the 2024 Madrid Open, former World No. 1 Ana Ivanovic has given her verdict on who she believes will take home the title.

In a repeat of last year's final, Swiatek will lock horns with the World No. 2 in the lookout for her first Madrid title. Defending champion Sabalenka, meanwhile, has two titles, having also won the 2021 edition.

Along the way to the summit clash, Swiatek downed the likes of Sara Sorribes Tormo, Beatriz Haddad Maia and Madison Keys, dropping only one set (against Haddad Maia) before the final. Sabalenka, by contrast, has played three setters in four of her five matches, including against Danielle Collins and Elena Rybakina.

On Saturday, the duo will meet for the 10th time on the WTA Tour, with the World No. 1 leading their head-to-head 6-3. They last met at the WTA Finals last year, where Iga Swiatek prevailed in straight sets.

Despite the statistics being in the four-time Grand Slam champion's favor, Ivanovic has picked Aryna Sabalenka to recreate 2023's result, even if she expects a "really close" battle between the top 2 again. Back then, Sabalenka needed three sets to beat Swiatek, doing so 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.

"What an exciting matchup in the #MMOPEN women’s final. It’s going to be a really close call, but I think Aryna Sabalenka will defend her title and prevail over Iga Swiatek," Ivanovic said via Twitter. "Can't wait."

"It's going to be a great final" - Aryna Sabalenka on her Madrid Open clash against Iga Swiatek

Mutua Madrid Open - Day Ten

Speaking at the press conference after her semifinal win over Elena Rybakina, Aryna Sabalenka spoke about the clash against Iga Swiatek, stating that she expected a "great final" against the Pole and that she was "super excited" for it.

"It's going to be a great final, with Iga (Swiatek) we had great matches in the past, they were always very difficult battles. I'm super excited for this final, so I'll do everything I can to get this victory," Aryna Sabalenka said.

The World No. 2 highlighted the fact that she and Swiatek are constantly improving their games, at the same time stating that she will take a look at their previous battles and figure out the optimum strategy to take on the World No. 1.

"We are both improving, we are changing some settings throughout the year, so I am going to watch their games to see if I have to modify my strategy. I insist, the main strategy will once again be to focus on myself and stay aggressive, trusting my shots," she added.