Kostyuk Advances to Last 16 at Mutua Madrid Open

MADRID, Spain – Ukrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk, ranked No. 24, advanced to the last 16 of the Mutua Madrid Open on Sunday by defeating Russian Veronika Kudermetova, 6-0, 4-6, 6-4. The match, held at the Caja Mágica, showcased Kostyuk’s skill as she recovered from a second-set loss to secure her spot in the tournament.

Kostyuk’s journey in the tournament has been marked by impressive play. In the previous round, she triumphed over British player Emma Raducanu with a score of 6-4, 2-6, 6-2. During her match against Kudermetova, Kostyuk executed an unusual ace, with the ball ricocheting off the top of her racquet and spinning sideways for an unexpected point.

Kudermetova, ranked No. 52, had entered the Round of 32 with a win over her sister Polina Kudermetova (6-2, 6-2) and a hard-fought victory against Spanish Cristina Bucsa (4-6, 7-6, 7-5) in earlier rounds. Despite her efforts, she was unable to maintain her momentum against Kostyuk.

With this victory, Kostyuk will face the winner of the upcoming match between American Sofia Kenin, seeded No. 32, and Russian Anastasia Potapova. This match is crucial as it determines the next steps for both Kostyuk and her potential opponent.

The tournament is known for its competitive atmosphere and high stakes, with significant prize money of EUR 7.854 million at stake. Kostyuk’s performance reflects her growing stature in the tennis world as she aims for further success in this prestigious WTA event.