Sorana Cirstea Secures WTA Title in Cleveland

CLEVELAND, OH, UNITED STATES

Sorana Cirstea won her third career WTA singles title on Saturday, defeating Ann Li 6-2, 6-4 at the Tennis in the Land tournament in Cleveland. This victory marks Cirstea’s first singles title since 2021 and her first on a hard court since 2008.

Entering the tournament as the No. 112 ranked player, Cirstea advanced through qualifying rounds to reach the main draw. Throughout the week, she showcased her skill by defeating five Top 100 players, including a quarterfinal win against No. 19 Liudmila Samsonova.

“It has been a wonderful week,” Cirstea said following her victory. “From the first match of qualies, I felt the energy. I really loved the city and the vibe.” Cirstea secured the first break of serve at 2-2 in the opening set, converting her first opportunity of the match.

During the final match, Li had a chance to break back but could not convert, and Cirstea faced only two additional break points thereafter. The Romanian showed no signs of pressure, ultimately sealing the match with confidence.

<p“It’s been a special week for me. I came here with absolutely zero expectations,” Cirstea added. Following her triumph, she has a quick turnaround ahead of the US Open.

Li will face Rebecca Sramkova on Monday, while Cirstea is set to play Argentina’s Solana Sierra on Tuesday. In doubles, Anna Danilina and Aleksandra Krunic triumphed over Chan Hao-ching and Jiang Xinyu, winning the title 7-6 (3), 6-4 in the final.

This win adds to Danilina’s impressive record, marking her 11th career WTA doubles title and second of the season, while Krunic celebrates her eighth career title.