Sabalenka Upset by 36-Year-Old Cirstea at Rome Masters

World number one Aryna Sabalenka has withdrawn from the Italian Open in Rome with an injury concern after a third‑round loss to 36‑year‑old Romanian Sorana Cirstea. The setback comes less than three weeks before the French Open at Roland Garros, raising doubts over Sabalenka’s fitness for one of the season’s biggest clay‑court tournaments. Her early exit also opens up the women’s draw in Rome, giving lower‑ranked players a clearer path to the later rounds.