Sabalenka Cruises Past Cristian in Indian Wells

Belarusian star Aryna Sabalenka dominates Romanian opponent in straight sets

Mar. 8, 2026 at 9:25pm

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Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian tennis star, defeated Jaqueline Cristian of Romania 6-4, 6-1 in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. Sabalenka, who has reached the final at this event in 2023 and 2025, added $43,855 to her prize money earnings with the win, bringing her total for the tournament so far to $105,720.

Why it matters

Sabalenka's victory continues her strong run at the prestigious Indian Wells tournament, where she has found success in recent years. The win also widens the head-to-head record between the two players, now standing at 1-0 in Sabalenka's favor.

The details

Sabalenka played an extraordinary match, clobbing Cristian in straight sets. The Belarusian won the first set 6-4 and then dominated the second set 6-1 to clinch the victory. If Sabalenka wins her next match, she will add an additional $87,925 to her tournament earnings, bringing her total to $193,645.

  • The match took place on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Aryna Sabalenka

A Belarusian professional tennis player who has reached the final at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells in 2023 and 2025.

Jaqueline Cristian

A Romanian professional tennis player who faced off against Sabalenka in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open.

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The takeaway

Sabalenka's dominant performance against Cristian showcases her continued excellence on the tennis court and her ability to excel at the prestigious Indian Wells tournament, where she has found great success in recent years.