MADRID: Simona Halep’s reign at the Madrid Open has come to an end following an inspired performance from Czech sixth seed Karolina Pliskova.
Playing in the quarter-final of the event for then first time in her career, Pliskova dismantled Halep’s game to surge to a 6-4, 6-3, win in just 69 minutes. The impressive performance, which has reduced Pliskova’s losing head-to-head record against Halep to 2-6, featured 20 winners to 16 unforced errors.
“I never really thought I can beat her, but this time somehow today I felt like I will have for sure chances. Even during the warm-up I felt so good today.” Said Pliskova.
“In the game overall I think I didn’t change much. I just was serving little bit different, more clever, not only the speed, but just to get the percentage, sometimes mix it up the speed, the kick which was quite working, just holding my serves. She started pretty strong, the beginning of the match, but I got quickly back.”
Exchanging breaks early on, it was sixth seed Pliskova who became the dominant forced in the match. Utilizing her powerful serve to move Halep around the court and dictate the rallies. Recovering from a 0-2 deficit, Pliskova capitalized on her opponent’s costly errors. At 3-3, she secured another break in her favor after a baseline rally concluded with a Halep backhand smashing into the net. Pliskova continued to pounce on the two-time champion, but missed out of two chances to seal the opening set 6-3. Nevertheless, she prevailed a game later after capitalizing on Halep’s 16th mistake in the match.
The relentless display from the 26-year-old continued into the second set. Displaying both power and skills with her shot-making. Meanwhile, Halep was left looking for answers as she grew more and more frustrated on the court. Hitting her leg with her hand after some shots. Once again, it was a Halep error that elevated Pliskova to a dominant position as she eased to a set and a break lead.
Closing in on a place in the last four of the tournament, Pliskova’s defensive skills proved too much for her rival. Halep’s coach, Darren Cahill, tried to urge her on during one of the breaks with words of encouragement. Still, it wasn’t enough to deny a solid Pliskova. Who sealed the win with a return that painted the baseline and forced Halep to return the ball into the net.
“I’m still surprised with my results on clay, especially about this streak what I have from Stuttgart here.” She reflected about her recent surge on the tour .”My draw was pretty tough.”
“Very pleased that I can, you know, get that far in this tournament. I always said I felt like conditions on this tournament can be good for me, but I never really played well. This time I think was perfect.”
Awaiting the Czech in the last four will be either Petra Kvitova or Daria Kasatkina. A challenge she is ready to tackle.
“Both of them, whoever wins, it’s going to be tough because both are having great year.” She explained, “Dasha (Kasatkina), even Petra. She played some finals, maybe some titles for sure. For sure a tough, tough semi.”
As a result of her latest win in Madrid, Pliskova now has the chance to go back into the top five in the WTA rankings. To do so, she needs Caroline Garcia to not win the title. She could rise as high as fourth if she reaches at least the final and her French rival doesn’t win the trophy.
