Ons Jabeur dominates Alexandrova in Madrid to succeed in first WTA 1000 closing

Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur moved into the primary WTA 1000 closing of her profession when she beat Russian qualifier Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-2, 6-3 on the Madrid Open on Thursday.

Ons Jabeur turns into first African in WTA 1000 closing at Madrid Open (Reuters Photo)

HIGHLIGHTSOns Jabeur moved into the primary WTA 1000 closing of her professionJabeur beat Russian qualifier Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-2, 6-3Jabeur will play both American Jessica Pegula or Swiss Jil Teichmann in Saturday’s closing

Ons Jabeur on Thursday turned the primary African participant to succeed in a Masters closing on the Madrid Open after beating Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-2, 6-3 within the semifinal in Madrid on Thursday. Jabeur created historical past final yr when, in October, she turned the primary Arab participant to succeed in the highest 10 of the tennis world rankings.

Alexandrova held a 6-1 head-to-head report towards eighth seed Jabeur however it was the Tunisian who confirmed aptitude and impeccable courtroom protection to get the higher of the qualifier.

“I felt like I was sick of losing to her all the time. So I came here to take my revenge,” Jabeur mentioned in a post-match interview.

“I feel like this tournament is a revenge tournament, every match. I’m very glad with my performance. I know she plays really well, so I tried to really impose my rhythm. I’m very happy with the level I played at today.”

The pair traded breaks within the opening set however Jabeur stepped up her sport to interrupt Alexandrova at 3-2, breaking with a lob on the internet.

Jabeur set free a scream of elation as the group acquired to their toes and the 27-year-old didn’t look again, breaking 4 instances within the match to wrap up the competition in 61 minutes.

She will play both American Jessica Pegula or Swiss Jil Teichmann in Saturday’s closing.

“I really hope they play for five hours and they become tired,” Jabeur mentioned with fun.

“I’m just going to focus on myself, it’s been tough losing a few finals lately. I’m going to do my best and then give it all for this one.”