The Qatar Open has seen surprising outcomes, with top seed Iga Swiatek and reigning Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina both eliminated in the quarter-finals. In a shocking match, Swiatek faced Maria Sakkari, who managed to claim a remarkable victory.
Swiatek Falls to Sakkari in Quarter-Final Upset
World No. 2 Iga Swiatek was defeated by Maria Sakkari with a score of 2-6, 6-4, 7-5. Swiatek began strong, dominating the first set in just 33 minutes. However, Sakkari, currently ranked No. 52, fought back fiercely, securing her first set win against Swiatek in five matches.
During the deciding set, Sakkari missed a crucial match point while leading 5-2. Swiatek took advantage, winning three consecutive games to tie the match. Ultimately, Sakkari regained her composure, breaking Swiatek in the final game, a result that ended Swiatek’s remarkable 109-0 record in WTA matches where she had won the first set.
Sakkari’s Upcoming Challenge
With this victory, Maria Sakkari moves on to the semi-finals, where she will face the winner of the quarter-final between Karolina Muchova and Anna Kalinskaya. Sakkari looks to secure her third WTA singles title, with her last victory dating back to 2023.
Mboko Shocks Rybakina, Ends Winning Streak
In another shocking twist, Victoria Mboko triumphed over Elena Rybakina, ending Rybakina’s nine-match winning streak with a score of 7-5, 4-6, 6-4. Mboko, considered the underdog, made a significant comeback, winning four consecutive games after initially trailing 3-5 in the first set.
Although Rybakina stabilized her performance in the second set, winning 6-4, the deciding set saw her lead 4-2. Mboko repeated her earlier success, winning an impressive four straight games to close out the match.
Mboko’s Next Challenge
Victoria Mboko will now face Jelena Ostapenko in the semi-finals of the Qatar Open. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, broadcasting live on Sky Sports.
Rotterdam Open Update
Meanwhile, at the Rotterdam Open, Australian No. 1 Alex de Minaur secured a place in the quarter-finals by defeating Stan Wawrinka in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2. De Minaur only faced one break throughout the match, showcasing his confidence on the court.
He will face Botic van de Zandschulp, a player who recently overcame Stefanos Tsitsipas, winning 6-4, 7-6 (7-4). This quarter-final will be an exciting encounter as both players aim for a place in the final.
