That Paula Badosa is returning to her best level has been something very evident for weeks. A high-profile victory was needed to confirm that the Catalans were once again in a position to fight for everything, and that victory came early on Tuesday.
The Washington Champion qualified for the quarterfinals of the Beijing Premier 1000 after defeating Jessica Pegula 6-4, 6-0number 3 in the world and one of the strongest players at the moment after an impressive American tour in which he won the Toronto tournament and reached the final in Cincinnati and the US Open.
In just one hour and four minutes The Catalan made his debut with a winning record against Pegula after four matchesand the American surrendered for the first time against a Spanish rival, who surrendered the day before going on to a doubles draw to focus on this rivalry.
The first set started in balance, with both players defending their serves.
Pegula took the lead, breaking Badosa’s serve to make it 1-3, taking advantage of two double faults from the Spaniard.
however, Badosa responded forcefully and earned a break to tie the score at 3-3.
The Spanish woman kept her rhythm, and With a good forehand cross he sealed it 6-4 in his favour.
The second set, unlike the first set, was an exhibition by Badosain the quarterfinals, leaving the American, ranked third in the world, blank.
In early separation, The Spaniard controlled the game and took advantage of Pegula’s nervousnesswho hit his racket on the ground several times in desperation.
Badosa did not waste the opportunities and closed the set with a resounding 6-0pushing the American to the limit and forcing him to make mistakes.
Although Pegula hit four aces in the match, Badosa’s effectiveness in the rest and his accuracy in the decisive points made the difference.
The Catalan converted the five chances he had on the breakwhile Pegula could not take advantage of his.
“I am very happy. My first time in the main draw. It’s very special to me… Lately, my results. They mean a lot to me. Coming to China at the end of the season, playing very well,” she said euphorically after the game.
“I just beat a top 10 player I was looking for the result. I am very happy in the quarterfinals. Another chance to be better at the next game and continue to improve and enjoy this great sport” he added.
The Spanish tennis player She will face the winner of the match between China’s Zhang Shuai (n.595) and Poland’s Magdalena Frech (n.31) in the quarterfinals.
Source: La Verdad
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