Caty McNally, the 24-year-old American tennis professional, has engineered a significant upset at the 2026 Miami Open, advancing to a marquee third-round match against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
McNally’s Path to the Third Round
Currently ranked World No. 72 in singles, McNally entered the Miami Open needing strong results. She delivered, starting with a decisive 6-2, 7-5 first-round victory over Rebeka Masarova on March 19, 2026. McNally won 79% of her first-service points and broke Masarova four times to secure the win.
Her second-round match on March 21, 2026, proved more dramatic. Facing No. 29 seed Wang Xinyu, McNally battled through a “see-saw” three-set match, ultimately triumphing 6-4, 1-6, 6-0. The victory, highlighted by a dominant final set, earned her a spot in the third round of the WTA 1000 event.
Career Context and Upcoming Challenge
McNally, a Cincinnati native who turned pro in 2016, achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 54 on May 22, 2023. Standing at 5’11” and playing right-handed, she has built a solid career primarily known for her doubles prowess, where she once reached a ranking of World No. 11.
Her reward for the upset over Wang is a match against the tournament’s top seed and defending champion, Aryna Sabalenka. The match, scheduled for the evening of March 22, 2026, represents a major opportunity for McNally to test her game against the world’s best on a premier stage.
Tournament Landscape and American Contingent
The Miami Open has been a focus for American players, even amid injuries. Fellow American Coco Gauff, a close friend and frequent doubles partner of McNally’s, is also competing while managing a left arm injury sustained at Indian Wells, emphasizing the importance of the “home tournament.” McNally’s run adds to the American narrative at the event.
As of March 22, 2026, McNally’s season record stands at 6 wins and 7 losses, with year-to-date prize money of $206,682.