"Anyone can win any tournament" - Halep not surprised by seed exits at Madrid Open

The series of high-profile exits at this year’s Madrid Open in the women’s draw is something that comes as no shock to two-time champion Simona Halep.

Heading into the halfway point of the WTA 1000 event only four out of the 16 seeds remain in the draw. The only top 10 player remaining in the draw is Ons Jabeur and Simona Halep will play her next. Speaking about the exits, Halep said:

"I would have said that WTA tennis is very open, and anyone can win any tournament. So I’m not very surprised. I know that everyone is working hard and everyone has a chance. I don’t look at the rankings that much, but it’s pretty amazing that only Ons is top 10 at this tournament. It’s a big tournament.”

Halep has been spectacular once more in Madrid as the 2x Madrid Open champion is hoping to add another one to her tally. She said:

“It means a lot because I feel great. I like the conditions. The people are very nice to me. I will always have a warm welcome. Everyone makes me feel at home. In the past, Mr. Tiriac owned this tournament and I felt like actually I’m playing at home. Everyone is nice to me. It’s a special tournament and forever will be the same.”