Adelaide International 2025: Liudmila Samsonova stuns Emma Navarro to secure semifinal berth and top-20 comeback
WTA
Liudmila Samsonova (No. 26) stunned Emma Navarro (No. 8) 6-4, 6-4 to advance to the Adelaide International semifinals. A subpar performance from the American was marked by unforced errors, while Samsonova secured her third victory of the season, reaching the Adelaide semifinals. The Russian achieved her 7th triumph over a top-10 player, the first since October 2023.
The world No. 26 started strong, winning 12 of the first 15 points and quickly breaking twice to take a 3-0 lead. Navarro’s persistent unforced errors gave the edge to the Russian, who played consistently from the baseline.
Things changed in the fourth game when Navarro took control of the match, winning the next four games. Samsonova struggled with her first serve, while Navarro grew more comfortable on court, being aggressive on the return and taking a 4-3 lead. However, the dominance was short-lived, as Samsonova maintained her composure for a comeback, clinching the set 6-4 with improved first-serve accuracy.
In the second set, Navarro was the first to break, taking a 3-1 lead, but once again, errors cost her. Samsonova leveled the score at 3-3 with a quick break back. The world No. 8 had chances to break but faltered at key moments. Ultimately, Samsonova secured a break in the 9th game and confidently served out the win.
The 26-year-old boasted an impressive 82% of points won on her first serve and was effective on return, breaking 5 times in 7 opportunities. Samsonova starts the year on a high note, ensuring her return to the top 20. She will face the winner between Madison Keys (No. 20) and Daria Kasatkina (No. 9) in the semifinals.
Thriving in Adelaide! ✨@LiudaSamsonova defeats No.2 seed Navarro in straight sets 6-4, 6-4 and books her ticket into the semifinals! #AdelaideTennis pic.twitter.com/mSl2LhvBBf
— wta (@WTA) January 9, 2025
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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