Iga Swiatek reached the Qatar Open semifinals with a victory over Elena Rybakina, winning 6-2, 7-5. Ekaterina Alexandrova also advanced by defeating Jessica Pegula. Swiatek remains the last seeded player in the tournament and will face Jelena Ostapenko, while Alexandrova takes on Amanda Anisimova. Both players are in top form as they aim for the final.
Iga Swiatek, the three-time defending champion, secured her place in the semifinals of the Qatar Open with a straight-sets victory over last year’s finalist, Elena Rybakina, winning 6-2, 7-5. Despite being challenged in the second set, second-seed Swiatek managed to overcome Rybakina, who is seeded fifth and made a commendable effort to fight back. With this win, Swiatek remains the only seeded player left in the tournament after Rybakina and Jessica Pegula were eliminated.
Ekaterina Alexandrova displayed impressive form as she defeated sixth seed Jessica Pegula, overcoming an initial setback to win 4-6, 6-1, 6-1. Alexandrova, who recently eliminated world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, extended her winning streak to eight matches, having previously triumphed at the Linz tournament. Despite struggling in the first set with multiple double faults, she regained control and dominated the remaining games.
In their respective semifinal matchups, Swiatek will face Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenko, who achieved victory over Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur with a dominant score of 6-2, 6-2. Swiatek expressed her contentment, stating, “I’m super happy and proud of myself,” acknowledging the raised level of her opponent in the second set. As she aims for her 23rd WTA title, Swiatek is focused on maintaining her competitive edge.
Alexandrova will compete against Amanda Anisimova for a spot in the final after the American defeated Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk 4-6, 7-5, 6-4. Alexandrova emphasized her focused approach to the tournament, stating, “I just play every single match and every single point and I don’t think about the future.” Both players are eager to continue their successful runs in Doha and secure their place in the final.
Iga Swiatek’s victory places her in the Qatar Open semifinals as she remains the last seeded player after notable upsets involving Rybakina and Pegula. Ekaterina Alexandrova is also making headlines with her resurgence in form. Their upcoming matches promise competitive intensity as they both strive for a place in the final, showcasing their readiness and determination in the tournament.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
