Marta KOSTYUK shocks San Diego with epic comeback against Jessica PEGULA

Sunday, 03 March 2024 at 04:53

Marta Kostyuk (No. 34) pulled off a stunning upset by defeating Jessica Pegula (No. 5) with a scoreline of 7-6(4), 6-1 to advance to the final of the WTA 500 San Diego Open. The 21-year-old Ukrainian continues to have an impressive year and will be playing in the second final of her career, one year after clinching the 2023 ATX Open title against Varvara Gracheva.

In an incredible comeback during the first set, Kostyuk was down 5-1 but managed to win 12 of the last 14 games of the match. This victory marked Kostyuk's first-ever win against a top-5 ranked player.

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In the opening set, Pegula took the initiative, securing an early break and later establishing a 2-0 lead with her service. While Kostyuk's level was not subpar, Pegula controlled crucial points and capitalized on some unforced errors from the Ukrainian to stay ahead.

The American managed to secure her second break, leading 5-1 with a two-break advantage. However, the 21-year-old staged a remarkable comeback, winning the next five games in succession and seizing her only two break opportunities. Although Pegula forced the set into a tie-break, Kostyuk ultimately prevailed on her second set point.

In the second set, the Ukrainian kept the momentum going, securing an early break. Despite the initial competitive games, Kostyuk maintained her lead. After Pegula brought the score to 2-1, it was Kostyuk who displayed more aggression, winning the next four games consecutively to close out the match 7-6(4), 6-1.

Boulter storms into the Final

Katie Boulter (No. 49) secured her spot in the final after defeating the third seed, Emma Navarro (No. 26), with a commanding score of 6-3, 6-1, showcasing her exceptional form throughout the week. Boulter overcame formidable opponents en route to the final, including the second seed, Beatriz Haddad Maia (No. 13), and the seventh seed, Donna Vekic (No. 28).

The British player will be contesting only the second final of her career. Her first final occurred nine months ago at the Nottingham Open Grass event, where she emerged victorious in the WTA 250 tournament against compatriot Jodie Burrage.

At 27 years old, Boulter has secured a career-best ranking, breaking into the top 35 in the world for the first time. She will now vie for her second title against Marta Kostyuk, whom she has not previously faced on the court.

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Magic under the lights ✨ @marta_kostyuk upsets the No.1 seed Pegula 7-6(4), 6-1 and will face Boulter for the San Diego title. #SanDiegoOpen

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3:47 AM · Mar 3, 2024

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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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