Eighth seed Kiki Bertens has secured her place in the last four of the WTA Finals following the retirement of US Open champion Naomi Osaka.
Bertens, who only managed to enter the tournament after Simona Halep pulled out, was leading the match 6-3 before it came to an end. World No.4 Osaka struggled with her movement throughout the clash and had heavy strapping put on her left thigh during a medical time out towards the end of the set. Osaka continued to play one more game before retiring.
“It’s never nice to win a match like this. I hope she is feeling better soon.” Bertens said during an on-court interview.
Bertens run to the last four in Singapore comes at the end of what has been a breakthrough season for the 26-year-old. Rising from 31st at the start of the year to a current ranking high of 9th. During that period she has reached four WTA finals, winning three titles, and recorded 12 wins over top 10 players.
“It’s been a great year. There has been some great tournament weeks in Charleston, Cincy and of course in Seoul. To be here (at the WTA Finals) at the end of the season is great.” The Dutch player reflected.
“I try to improve every day, I think that is the key. Trying to do everything, everyday as good as you can. “
Bertens is the third player to qualify for the last four of the season-ending event. After Karolina Pliskova and Elina Svitolina secured their places on Thursday. Should she reach the final, she would become the first Dutch player in history to do so in singles competition.
“I just have to try to keep on going. I’ve had some tough matches here, but I think the day in between helps a lot to rest and recover. I just want to keep on going.” She concluded.
Later on Friday Angelique Kerber and Sloane Stephens will battle it out for the last place in the semi-finals.
