Underdog Marketa Vondrousova has continued her dream run at the French Open with a dominant 6-2, 6-0, win over 12th seed Anastasija Sevastova in the fourth round.
Playing in the main draw of a grand slam for only the ninth time in her career, the world No.38 was able to dictate the rallies against her much more experienced opponent. Sevastova is almost 10 years older than her. The clinical victory was sealed with the help of 19 winners, compared to seven from Sevastova. Vondrousova also won 72% of her first service points and converted six out of eight break point opportunities.
“She’s a great player, tough opponent and I think I played my best tennis today. I’m just very happy.” The Czech said afterwards.
“It (Roland Garros) was my first junior grand slam and pro grand slam, so I’m in love with this place. I’m really enjoying myself here.”
Vondrousova, who won the French Open girls doubles title back in 2015, has already illustrated her potential this season. Scoring four wins over top 20 players, including two over Simona Halep. Against Sevastova, she was able to break down the forehand of her opponent with the use of some clever shot-making. Racing to a 3-0 lead with ease at the start of the match before taking a medical time out. She scraped her hand on the court and drew blood after slipping over. Upon resumption, Sevastova retrieve the break as she showed signs of getting back into contention. However, the lacklustre Latvian struggled to maintain her consistency and struggled with her serve throughout. Enabling Vondrousova to close the first set out with ease.
Closing in on the milestone victory, the world No.38 claimed nine consecutive games against her weary opponent, who looked to be suffering from the after effects of her marathon clash with Elise Mertens in the previous round. In the end it was a one-sided display from the Czech as she scored her second bagel set in the tournament. She also scored a 6-0 set against Anastasia Potapova in the second round. After just 59 minutes of play, the win was secured on her first match point with the help of a forehand winner.
Vondrousova has reached the quarter-finals or better at six consecutive tournaments since the Australian Open. She will play either Kaia Kanepi or Petra Martin in the quarter-finals.
In this year’s draw, three teenage players have progressed to the fourth round for the first time since 2008. Iga Swaitek (18) and Amanda Anisimova (17) are yet to play their matches.
