(VIDEO) Belinda Bencic’s hilarious mid-match phone mishap steals the show in Abu Dhabi

Friday, 07 February 2025 at 21:00

Belinda Bencic provided a hilarious blooper during her Abu Dhabi Open semifinal match against Elena Rybakina when she accidentally interrupted play due to her phone alarm going off. In complete silence on the court, just as the Swiss star was preparing to serve, the unexpected sound broke the concentration.

The amusing moment happened with the score at 3-6, 2-0, right after Bencic had secured a crucial break to take the lead in the second set. The former world No. 4 staged a comeback from a set down, continuing her impressive form since returning to the tour after giving birth in April 2024.

Bencic accidentally stops play with phone alarm

Bencic now boasts a 10-2 record this season and has reached her first final of the year—her first in two years. She will aim to capture her first title since 2023, which also happened to be at the Abu Dhabi Open.

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Facing the 2022 Wimbledon champion, Belinda Bencic provided a moment of pure comedy that drew laughter and applause from the crowd when her serve was interrupted by a phone alarm. However, the sound wasn’t coming from the stands—it was from Bencic’s own bag, as her phone had started ringing.

Despite the unexpected incident, Bencic quickly regained focus and held her serve. She ultimately secured a 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory, guaranteeing her return to the top 100 just three WTA tournaments into her comeback. This is a remarkable rise considering she was ranked world No. 1447 just five months ago.

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In the final, Bencic will face surprise contender Ashlyn Krueger, who has also been in stellar form this season. Krueger advanced after defeating 20-year-old Czech Linda Noskova in straight sets.

Belinda Bencic's phone went off during her match against Rybakina in Abu Dhabi 😂 pic.twitter.com/CwzpXSQrgM
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 7, 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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