Bia Haddad reaches the semifinals of the WTA 500 in Abu Dhabi.
The Brazilian player defeated Tunisian Ons Jabeur in straight sets.
By Agência Brasil - Rio de Janeiro
Brazilian Bia Haddad defeated Tunisian Ons Jabeur, number 6 in the world, this Friday (9), by 2 sets to 0 (partial scores of 6/3 and 6/4) to advance to the semifinals of the WTA 500 in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates).
“I’m happy with my match today. First of all, it’s very special to share the court with Ons. She represents women’s tennis in a very special way, I have a lot of respect for her. To beat a player like her in two sets, the way it happened and with a full court, is a special and important victory. Overall, I’m happy with how I’ve approached training and matches in recent days. Playing a semifinal in a big tournament, on a big court and against great players is always special, so I’ll try to take care of my body and prepare in the best way possible,” declared the 27-year-old Brazilian.
Now Bia Haddad faces Russian Daria Kasatkina, number 14 in the world, in the tournament's semifinals. “Kasatkina is a very solid player, whom I've known since my junior days. She's very competitive and has been in the top 20 for many years, so she's been playing at a high level. I'll try to be as aggressive as possible and continue focusing on the present.”
However, before that, Bia has a commitment in the doubles bracket, alongside Luisa Stefani. The Brazilians will face Americans Sofia Kenin and Bethanie Mattek-Sands next Saturday (10) for a place in the final. “I’m excited and motivated to play with Lu. It’s very special to learn from her. I’m happy that we’re managing to work in the right way,” she concluded.