The first set was decided in a grueling tiebreak where Halep saved three set points and needed seven of her own to finally emerge on the winning side. Rybakina fought back to take the second set, but was unable to break the Romanian’s resolve in the decisive set.
Halep had played against Rybakina in a marathon final in Dubai last year, and so was expecting another battle on Friday. The 29-year-old told the media that she was “super stressed” at the prospect of playing her again, before adding that the victory has reinforced her confidence and self-belief.
The Romanian also gave an insight into what went through her mind in the first set tiebreak, which lasted 17 minutes. Halep led by 6-2 but squandered four set points, before eventually taking it 13-11.
Halep believes it was her experience which led her to be brave even when facing set points.
The two-time Major champion was also asked to give some advice to younger players who want to make it big in the sport. In response, Halep emphasized how important it is to stick to a schedule and to believe in yourself. She also highlighted the need to work hard every day.
“The level is super high, everyone can win a match”- Simona Halep on the level of competition at US Open 2021
This year, all the top 20 seeds in the women’s draw have made it to the third round of the US Open. The level of competition has only grown with each passing round.
Simona Halep, seeded 12th, was asked to give her opinion on the state of women’s tennis given the strength of the draw at Flushing Meadows. In response, the Romanian joked that every match seemed like a semifinal when she was looking at the tournament schedule.
Halep went on to assert that the level is “super high” and that everyone was “super strong”.
Simona Halep will take on long-time rival and fifth seed Elina Svitolina for a place in the quarterfinals of the 2021 US Open on Sunday.
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