A major upset has rocked the 2026 Italian Open as world number one **Aryna Sabalenka** crashed out in the third round. Despite a commanding start, the Belarusian’s momentum stalled as she struggled with an apparent lower back/hip injury late in the match.
**Sabalenka Falters After Injury Timeout**
After dominating the first set 6–2 and leading early in the second, Sabalenka saw the match slip away as **Sorana Cîrstea** mounted a gritty comeback. Down 3–4 in the deciding set, Sabalenka called for a **medical timeout** to receive treatment. Although she managed to claw back from a 3–5 deficit to level the set at 5–5, the physical toll proved too much.
**A Career-Defining Win for Cîrstea**
The 36-year-old Cîrstea, who has announced that 2026 will be her final season on tour, remained composed despite the late drama. She broke Sabalenka’s serve once more to lead 6–5 and successfully served out the match to claim a **2–6, 6–3, 7–5** victory. This marks the Romanian’s first-ever win against a reigning world number one, sending a “thunderbolt” through the Foro Italico.
**Uncertainty Before Roland Garros**
For Sabalenka, this early exit follows a surprise quarterfinal loss in Madrid, raising questions about her physical condition as the French Open approaches. Meanwhile, Cîrstea moves into the round of 16, continuing what is shaping up to be a historic farewell tour.