Baby’s Cries Briefly Disrupt Sabalenka–Raducanu Thriller in Cincinnati; belarusian Advances
Cincinnati, OH – August 11, 2025 – A tense moment unfolded during aryna Sabalenka’s hard-fought victory over Emma Raducanu at the WTA 1000 Cincinnati Open today. The world number one needed three hours and ten minutes to overcome Raducanu, 7-6 (3), 4-6, 7-6 (5), in a match briefly interrupted by a crying infant in the stands.
The incident occurred during the decisive third set. Raducanu,visibly frustrated,brought the noise to the attention of the chair umpire,stating the crying had persisted for approximately ten minutes. The umpire’s response, delivered with a touch of irony, reportedly asked if Raducanu wanted the child removed from the Lindner Family Tennis Centre. “He is a child, do you want him to throw him out of the stadium? If you ask, I can do it,” the umpire is quoted as saying by multiple spectators.
Raducanu, after a murmur of agreement from some in the crowd – estimated at around 200 in the section – confirmed she would like the situation addressed. Remarkably, instantly following the exchange, Sabalenka missed an easy volley at the net, adding to the dramatic atmosphere. The point was replayed.
Sabalenka ultimately prevailed in the marathon match, securing her 49th win of the season and solidifying her position as a dominant force in women’s tennis. The Belarusian is currently ranked number one with 8,885 points, 1,230 ahead of second-ranked Iga Świątek.
Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, is currently ranked 17th in the world and is working her way back from a recent wrist injury sustained during the Madrid Open in May. She has a 13-11 record this season.
Sabalenka will next face Jéssica Bouzas Maneiro in the round of 16. Bouzas Maneiro advanced with a comfortable 6-4, 6-1 victory over American Taylor townsend. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, August 13th, at 11:00 AM EST on Court 3.
RADUCANU IS COMPLAINING BECAUSE A BABY HAS BEEN CRYING FOR THE PAST “10mins” AND SABALENKA IS LOOSING THE EASIEST POINTS.
ABSOLUTE CINEMA. pic.twitter.com/npjTueGVQ0
– Set 1 Game 4 Break Point – NO (-130) (@enanrb) August 11, 2025
Beyond the Match: The Growing Trend of Noise Disruptions in Tennis
While a crying baby is a common occurence at sporting events, the incident highlights a growing challenge for professional tennis: managing noise distractions. Increased attendance and the prevalence of mobile devices contribute to a more boisterous atmosphere. The WTA and ATP are currently reviewing protocols for handling such disruptions, with potential solutions including designated “quiet zones” and stricter enforcement of existing rules. The Lindner Family Tennis Center holds approximately 11,430 spectators.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Cincinnati Open and exclusive coverage of Sabalenka’s journey.
