SINGAPORE – Maja Chwalinska delivered a commanding performance on September 25, defeating defending champion Elise Mertens with a final score of 6-2, 6-2 in the quarter-finals of the Singapore Tennis Open. The match took place on Centre Court at the OCBC Arena, where Chwalinska showcased her remarkable agility and focus.
Chwalinska's Journey to Success
The 24-year-old Polish tennis player, currently ranked No. 25 in the world, demonstrated exceptional skill, completing the quarter-final match in under 90 minutes. Chwalinska, who has transitioned from a qualifier to a finalist at the French Open, faced significant challenges earlier this year, including an ankle injury at Wimbledon. However, her recent performances mark a positive turn in her career.
Reflecting on her recent experiences, she remarked, “This year has been an emotional roller coaster. I encountered some tough weeks, but I remained patient and dedicated to improving myself every day. It feels rewarding now.”
Perfect Week in Singapore
Before facing Mertens, Chwalinska had a flawless record in the tournament, winning all matches without dropping a set. She triumphed over Rebecca Sramkova and Oleksandra Oliynykova with scores of 6-4, 6-2, and 6-0, 6-1, respectively. Her confidence soared, enabling her to bring her best game against the experienced Mertens.
“Elise is a solid player, so I knew I had to play at my highest level to win,” Chwalinska explained. “I concentrated on my match goals, which paid off. Still, there’s always room for improvement.” This victory marks her second win over Mertens this year, having previously defeated her at the French Open.
Recovery and Future Matches
Chwalinska’s journey has been shaped by her recovery from injury. “After the French Open, the emotions were overwhelming,” she candidly shared. “The experience at Wimbledon was difficult, and rebuilding my trust in my body took time.” Between the French Open and the US Open earlier this month, her record reflected a struggle with one victory and five defeats.
“Given my active playing style, ensuring my ankle health is crucial,” she noted. “I’m thrilled to have found my rhythm here, and I look forward to the upcoming matches.” Chwalinska is next set to face Leylah Fernandez in the semi-finals, following Fernandez’s impressive win over top seed Mirra Andreeva.
Fernandez's Resilience
Leylah Fernandez, currently ranked 31st in the world, entered the quarter-finals as a wildcard and stunned Andreeva with a score of 6-2, 7-5. Fernandez's previous encounter with Andreeva in August gave her confidence, as it marked her first win over a top-10 player this season.
“I knew Mirra would put up a fight,” Fernandez said after her victory. “Trusting in myself was crucial. Although I faced tough moments, I was able to execute my strategies effectively.”
Despite leading 5-2 in the second set, Fernandez faced a challenging moment when Andreeva fought back. “I briefly lost focus at 5-2 and felt anxious. However, I eventually calmed myself by refocusing on my training routines,” she admitted.
Other Quarter-Final Highlights
In other matches, Tatiana Prozorova triumphed over Wang Xinyu in a marathon battle lasting 181 minutes, concluding with a score of 3-6, 7-5, 6-4. Prozorova's journey through the tournament included extended matches against Alexandra Eala and Sofia Costoulas.
Additionally, in the women’s doubles quarter-finals, Prozorova and her partner Sofya Lansere had to retire while trailing after Prozorova was struck in the eye during play.
As the tournament intensifies, Maja Chwalinska and Leylah Fernandez are set for an exciting semi-final battle, making for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the Singapore Tennis Open.