Kontaveit advances to Sydney semifinal following Jabeur retirement

Fourth seed Anett Kontaveit secured her spot in the semifinals of the Sydney Tennis Classic, as opponent Ons Jabeur was forced to retire after the first set.

Kontaveit took the opening set 6-4 after a tedious 51 minute struggle, in a match that could easily have gone either way. Both ladies held their opening serves, with the Estonian obtaining the first break to lead 3-2.

However, Jabeur displayed her fiery competitive nature by breaking back to level the score. The seventh seed attempted to build some momentum but was plagued by a few errant shots that saw her yield another game to Kontaveit. With a second break in hand, the World No.7 breathed a sigh of relief as she closed out the opening set.

Read also

Sydney Tennis Classic WTA Prize Money with $703,580 on offer

During the set break, Jabeur took a medical timeout and was examined by her trainer. This led to the Tunisian conceding the match soon after, as she seemed to be bothered by an undisclosed injury.

Kontaveit improves to 2-3 against Jabeur in career meetings, and will face the winner between Barbora Krejcikova and Caroline Garcia for a spot in the final.