In an intense quarter-final at the WTA Allied Thailand Open, unseeded Slovenian Tamara Zidansek surprised many by defeating Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska on Friday. Zidansek, ranked World No. 261, fought for three and a half hours to overcome World No. 74, winning 4-6, 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/3) at Arena Hua Hin.
The match started with Podoroska in control, as she fired five aces to claim the first set 6-4. However, Zidansek showed remarkable resilience, fighting back in both the second and third sets. Both were decided by tiebreaks, with Zidansek holding her nerve to win them 7-3. Her hard-fought victory secured a place in the semi-finals.
Zidansek to Face Fett in Semi-Finals
With her quarter-final victory, Zidansek now faces Croatian World No. 129 Jana Fett in the semi-finals. Fett also advanced after a challenging three-set win against Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova, with a scoreline of 6-4, 4-6, 6-1.
Krejcikova Prepares for the China Open
Meanwhile, two-time Grand Slam champion Barbora Krejcikova has been preparing for her upcoming tournaments by training at Arena Hua Hin. Krejcikova, the 2021 French Open and 2023 Wimbledon champion is gearing up for the WTA 1000 China Open in Beijing, which starts on September 25. Former World No. 9 and Thailand Open tournament director, Paradorn Srichaphan, expressed his excitement about Krejcikova’s presence. He stated, “It is great news that a top player like Barbora Krejcikova chose to train at Arena Hua Hin. This proves the venue is of world-class standard and an ideal place for top players to prepare.”
Davis Cup Final 8 Draw Announced
In other tennis news, the Davis Cup Final 8 draw for November’s knockout stage has been revealed. Reigning champions Italy will face Argentina in the quarter-finals. The United States will take on Australia, Canada will play Germany, and Spain will go up against the Netherlands. The Final 8 will be held in Malaga, Spain, from November 19 to 24, with teams vying for the prestigious 2024 Davis Cup title.
