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Garbine Muguruza Australian Open 2021
Tennis News

Muguruza wins thriller


Muguruza had to survive an attacking onslaught from her inspired rival before she was able to wrestle control of a frantic third set.

“I think she [Kontaveit] was playing so good in the first two sets,” admitted last year’s winner. “I was just hanging in there, trying to be aggressive and waiting for my moment – and in the third set it came.

“I lost to her recently and this is one of my favourite tournaments. My spirit here is at maximum, and I’m always going to fight for every ball and try to win.”

Venus Williams eased into the third round for a 14th time in the French capital. The veteran American, watched from the stands by her sister Serena, defeated Kurumi Nara 6-3 6-1.

“I love being here,” beamed the 36-year-old. “I love playing on this court and I was happy to win today against a really inspired opponent. You never stop learning, that’s why you can’t win every match, and that’s what I love about the game.”

Petra Kvitova’s Paris adventure has been ended at the second round stage by Bethanie Mattek-Sands. The American used her variety and craftiness to unsettle the Czech and score a 7-6(5) 7-6(5) win.

“I saw Petra before the tournament started. I gave her a big hug,” remarked Mattek-Sands. “I was really happy to see her back, especially after everything that had happened. You know, she’s an inspiration. She not only came back from all of that, she came back playing well.

“We had a great match today. It’s really good to see her back and playing well. She’s a great champion, so it’s a really good win for me.”

Kristina Mladenovic gave her army of passionate supporters on Suzanne-Lenglen Court plenty to cheer about. The No.13 seed thumped 21 forehand winners as she defeated Sara Errani 6-2 6-3.

“I am satisfied to have beaten a great player, she was impressive,” said the thrilled 24-year-old. “My back caused me some problems and made me feel unsure, but it’s a bit better now.”

CiCi Bellis might be making her debut at Roland Garros this year, but the 18-year-old is reveling in the experience. The American – who reached the round of 32 at the 2016 US Open – upset last year’s semi-finalist, Kiki Bertens, 6-3 7-6(5).

Ekaterina Makarova was unable to capitalise on her opening round win over top seed Angelique Kerber. The Russian won just four games as she was bundled out the tournament by Lesia Tsurenko.

Caroline Wozniacki was in a ruthless mood as she defeated Francoise Abanda 6-0 6-0 in just 52 minutes. The Dane is now into the third round in Paris for the first time in five years.

There was also an historic success for Ons Jabeur. The Tunisian became the first Arab woman to reach the third round of a Grand Slam singles event after a career-defining 6-4 6-3 win over Dominika Cibulkova.

Sam Stosur, Shelby Rogers,Yulia Putintseva and Jelena Ostapenko also claimed wins.

 


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.