Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova suffered a surprising early exit from the US Open, losing in straight sets in the second round to Romanian qualifier Elena-Gabriela Ruse. The 28-year-old Czech player, who had claimed her second Grand Slam title at Wimbledon just last month after winning the 2021 French Open, faced disappointment at Flushing Meadows once again.
Elena-Gabriela Ruse Stuns Krejcikova
In a stunning upset, Elena-Gabriela Ruse, ranked world number 122, managed to knock out the eighth-seeded Krejcikova in their second-round encounter. The Romanian qualifier showed great determination and skill as she outplayed the Wimbledon champion, securing a 6-4, 7-5 victory in one hour and 45 minutes. Ruse’s aggressive play and composure under pressure were evident throughout the match, as she capitalized on her opportunities to progress to the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time in her career.
A Tale of Two Sets
The match between Krejcikova and Ruse was marked by intense rallies and competitive play from both sides. Despite facing a set point while trailing 5-2 in the opening set, Krejcikova showcased her fighting spirit by holding her serve and breaking Ruse in the following game. However, Ruse maintained her focus and managed to break Krejcikova once again to clinch the first set 6-4.
In the second set, Krejcikova seemed poised for a comeback as she held a 5-4 lead and had the opportunity to serve for the set. However, Ruse had other plans and mounted a remarkable comeback, breaking Krejcikova twice in quick succession to secure a 7-5 win and seal her victory over the Wimbledon champion. The match was a testament to Ruse’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, as she outplayed Krejcikova in crucial moments to claim the win.
Ruse’s Next Challenge
Following her impressive victory over Krejcikova, Elena-Gabriela Ruse is set to face Spain’s Paula Badosa in the third round of the US Open. Badosa, who defeated American Taylor Townsend in straight sets (6-3, 7-5) in her second-round match, will provide a tough challenge for Ruse as she looks to continue her successful run in the tournament. The matchup between Ruse and Badosa promises to be an exciting encounter, with both players showcasing their talents and determination on the court.
As Krejcikova exits the US Open earlier than expected, Ruse’s triumph highlights the unpredictability and competitiveness of Grand Slam tennis. The Romanian qualifier’s impressive performance serves as a reminder of the depth of talent in the women’s game and the potential for upsets in major tournaments. With Ruse’s confidence soaring after her victory over the Wimbledon champion, she will undoubtedly be a player to watch as the US Open progresses.