Overview
- At 4-3 in the first set, Sabalenka photographed a disputed ball mark after umpire Miriam Bley denied a second review request.
- The incident led to a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct but did not disrupt Sabalenka's performance.
- Sabalenka immediately broke back and secured a 6-4, 6-1 victory to reach the Stuttgart Open semi-finals.
- Post-match, Sabalenka described her handshake with Bley as unusually firm, reflecting lingering tension over the officiating dispute.
- Sabalenka will face Jasmine Paolini in the semi-finals after the Italian defeated Coco Gauff in straight sets.