Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, Iga Swiatek and Naomi Osaka (Image Via Getty)
The courts in Madrid are already busy, even before the real matches begin. Big names like Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, Iga Swiatek, and Naomi Osaka have started their practice sessions as the Madrid Open main draw kicks off this week.
Fans who came early got a close look at some strong pairings on the practice courts.Gauff was seen training with Rybakina, while Swiatek worked with Osaka. These sessions were not just light hits. Players were fully focused, working on details, fixing small mistakes, and getting ready for the long tournament ahead. Videos from the venue and social media clips showed the energy building up as the tournament officially begins.
Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, Iga Swiatek, and Naomi Osaka sharpen form ahead of Madrid Open matches
Gauff and Rybakina shared the court in a high-intensity session. Gauff spent time working on her volleys, listening closely to her coach and making quick adjustments. On the other side, Rybakina kept hitting powerful shots and even paused at times to talk through her technique after certain rallies. The crowd around the practice court stayed engaged throughout.At another court, Swiatek and Osaka trained together. One moment caught attention online — Swiatek arrived a bit late for the session, but quickly got into rhythm once practice started.
The two former world No. 1 players looked sharp and focused.All four players will begin their campaigns in the Round of 64 on Thursday, with opponents still to be confirmed. Swiatek, who won Madrid in 2024, could face Aryna Sabalenka later in the tournament if both progress deep. Rybakina may open against either Elena-Gabriela Ruse or Antonia Ruzic and could meet Zheng Qinwen in the third round. Gauff, seeded third, might face Oksana Selekhmeteva or a qualifier, with a possible clash against Jessica Pegula in the later rounds.For Gauff, this tournament carries extra importance. She is still searching for her first singles title of the 2026 season. Her year has had good moments, like reaching the Australian Open quarter-final, but also tough losses. She was beaten by Elina Svitolina more than once, including in Dubai. She also suffered an early exit in Qatar against Elisabetta Cocciaretto.Things looked better in Miami, where she reached the final. But once again, Sabalenka proved too strong in the final match. Gauff also had a setback at Indian Wells, where she had to withdraw due to injury during her match against Alexandra Eala.Now on clay, she is hoping Madrid can change her season. Her first match in Stuttgart ended in a loss to Karolína Muchová, so she will want a better start here. The preparation looks serious, and the intent is clear.
