In a surprising turn of events at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, Antonia Ruzic reached her first WTA 1000 quarterfinal after Elena Rybakina withdrew during their third-round match. This Monday encounter was significant for both players, with Rybakina being the top seed and fresh off a Grand Slam victory at the Australian Open.
Match Summary
The match began with Ruzic taking an early lead, showcasing her strong performance in the first set. However, Rybakina quickly recovered, winning the set 7-5. The dynamic shifted again in the second set as Ruzic broke Rybakina’s serve and secured a 6-4 win, forcing a decisive third set.
Rybakina’s Retirement
As the third set commenced, Ruzic broke Rybakina’s serve in the opening game. Shortly after, Rybakina called for medical assistance and subsequently retired from the match. This marked a significant achievement for Ruzic, as it was her first victory against a top-20 opponent.
Noteworthy Achievements
- First WTA 1000 quarterfinal for Antonia Ruzic.
- Defeated top seed Elena Rybakina due to retirement.
- Ruzic held off six match points in her first qualifying round.
- Defeated former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu and Anastasia Zakharova to reach the third round.
Ruzic’s journey to the quarterfinals is remarkable, especially considering her status as a lucky loser. This week marked a fortunate turnaround for the 23-year-old Croatian, who had initially lost in the first qualifying round but capitalized on her opportunity to compete in the main draw.
Recent Rankings
Currently ranked No. 67 on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz, Ruzic’s performance in Dubai not only highlighted her talent but also set a record for lucky losers in WTA 1000 events. As she advances deeper into the tournament, her future matches will surely attract attention.
