Krejcikova rallies from the brink of defeat to topple Kontaveit in Sydney semifinals

Barbora Krejcikova summoned all her reserves on Friday as she fought back from a set down to defeat Anett Kontaveit, booking her spot in the Sydney Tennis Classic final.

The reigning Roland Garros champion saved seven match points in her 0-6 6-4 7-6(12) victory, fighting past a very determined Kontaveit in two hours and 30 minutes. The Estonian raced through the first set without dropping a game, and it looked like the writing was on the wall for Krejcikova. However, the World No.4 was able to turn the tables on her opponent, as she took the second set without facing a break point.

The deciding set saw Krejcikova obtain an early break, only for Kontaveit to break back and level the score at 3-3. A tiebreak ensued, as neither lady was willing to give in to the other, although the Estonian did hold three match points at 4-5. Kontaveit saw another four match points evaporate during the grueling tiebreaker, as both ladies hit amazing shots at crucial moments to remain in the game. After a tiring 75 minute third set, it was Krejcikova who prevailed and closed out the match on her fourth match point.

Kontaveit may have her chance at revenge sooner rather than later, as both women are projected to meet in the quarterfinals of the upcoming Australian Open. Nonetheless, it is Krejcikova who advances to the final, where she'll meet the winner between fifth seed Paula Badosa and the in-form Daria Kasatkina.