World · Malaysia Bureau
Bejlek stages dramatic comeback to oust Keys at Cincinnati
Czech player Sara Bejlek mounted an impressive second-half surge to defeat American Madison Keys 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/5) and advance to the Cincinnati semi-finals. Bejlek recovered from a slow start and a first-set deficit to claim the hard-fought victory.
LSN Malaysia ·
Sara Bejlek produced a commanding display of resilience at the Cincinnati Open, overturning an early deficit to eliminate third-seed Madison Keys in a thrilling quarter-final encounter. The Czech player, ranked considerably lower than her American opponent, found herself trailing 0-3 in the opening set but refused to surrender, demonstrating the mental fortitude required at the highest levels of women's tennis.
After conceding the first set 6-3, Bejlek shifted momentum decisively in her favour. She claimed the second set 6-4 to level the match, breaking through Keys's formidable serve and forcing errors from her opponent. The momentum swung repeatedly throughout the contest, keeping spectators on edge as both players fought for control.
The decisive third set proved as competitive as the match itself. With the score locked at 6-6, the tiebreak provided the stage for Bejlek's breakthrough. She edged through 7-5 in the tiebreak to seal a 7-6 victory in the final set and earn her place in the semi-finals. The win represents a significant achievement for Bejlek, who delivered when it mattered most against a higher-ranked opponent.