Ostapenko’s Doha Dominance Continues: Mboko and Sakkari Stand in Her Way
Jelena Ostapenko is making history at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open, securing her 24th match win at the tournament – a record since its inception in 2001. The Latvian is back in the semifinals, a familiar stage for the two-time finalist, and will face the rising star Victoria Mboko.
Mboko’s Breakthrough Run
Nineteen-year-old Victoria Mboko continues to impress in her Doha debut, having already defeated two Top 10 players: Mirra Andreeva and Elena Rybakina. Her comeback victory against Rybakina, winning the last four games of the deciding set, showcased her poise and resilience. Mboko is the first teenager to reach the Doha semifinals since Ostapenko herself did so in 2016.
Mboko leads the tournament in winners with 126, but also has 34 unforced errors. She will need to maintain a similar aggressive approach against Ostapenko, who thrives when facing pace.
Ostapenko’s Quest for a WTA 1000 Title
Despite being a Grand Slam champion – winning the 2017 French Open – Ostapenko has yet to claim a WTA 1000 title. She has twice reached the final in Doha, and this marks her fourth semifinal appearance at the tournament, tying her with Agnieszka Radwanska for the most ever.
While she had a shaky start to the tournament, Ostapenko has found her form, winning her last three matches in straight sets. Fatigue could be a factor, as she is also competing in the doubles semifinals with partner Hsieh Su-Wei.
Sakkari’s Resurgence and Clash with Muchova
Maria Sakkari delivered a significant upset, defeating top seed Iga Swiatek in a three-set thriller. It was the first time Swiatek had lost a WTA 1000 match after winning the opening set in 110 attempts. This victory signals a return to form for Sakkari, who hadn’t secured consecutive Top 10 wins since the 2022 WTA Finals.
Sakkari will face Karolina Muchova in the semifinals. Muchova has a 4-0 head-to-head record against Sakkari, though two of those matches went to three sets.
Muchova’s Consistent Performance
Karolina Muchova is into her fourth career WTA 1000 semifinal, demonstrating strong form with a 10-2 start to the season. She has dropped only 19 games in four matches this week and is looking to secure her first WTA 1000 title.
FAQ
Q: What is Jelena Ostapenko’s record at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open?
A: She has 24 wins and 9 losses, making her the winningest player in tournament history.
Q: Who did Maria Sakkari defeat to reach the semifinals?
A: She defeated top seed Iga Swiatek in three sets.
Q: How old is Victoria Mboko?
A: She is 19 years old.
Q: What is Karolina Muchova’s head-to-head record against Maria Sakkari?
A: Muchova leads 4-0.
Did you know? Jelena Ostapenko first made a name for herself at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open a decade ago, reaching the final as an 18-year-old.
Stay tuned for updates as the semifinals unfold in Doha!
