Lys stuns Rybakina with a breakthrough in Beijing as Kessler progresses after Krejcikova retirement
Eva Lys Stuns Elena Rybakina at China Open: A Match of Margins and Milestones
Eva Lys Overcomes Odds in Thrilling China Open Match
Tennis is often a game of narrow margins, where mere millimeters can determine the course of a match. Such was the case in Beijing, where Eva Lys delivered a stunning performance, defeating No. 8 seed Elena Rybakina 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 in the China Open. After battling for 2 hours and 14 minutes, Lys emerged victorious with a single-point advantage as Rybakina’s final shot sailed long.
Historic Firsts for Eva Lys
The victory was monumental for the 23-year-old German, marking a series of personal milestones:
- First win against Elena Rybakina (previously 0-1)
- First triumph over a Grand Slam champion (previously 0-6)
- First victory against a top 10 opponent (previously 0-8)
- First win over a top 20 competitor (previously 0-11)
- Reached the fourth round at a WTA 1000 event for the first time
Reflecting on her milestone achievement, Lys expressed gratitude, saying, “I’ve already outdone myself. Being in the fourth round for the first time is a nice feeling, so I’m just enjoying everything.”
Key Moments: A Closer Look at On-Court Drama
Several pivotal moments defined the match:
- Lys held a crucial love service game to lead 4-3 in the first set.
- Despite Rybakina’s strong start in the second set, Lys staged a remarkable comeback to force a third set.
- In the deciding set, Lys broke Rybakina for the sixth and seventh time, securing her upset victory.
Statistical Analysis: The Numbers Behind the Win
| Statistic | Lys | Rybakina |
|---|---|---|
| Total Points Won | 95 | 94 |
| First-Serve Percentage | 71% | 46% |
| Unforced Errors | 20 | 50 |
| Winners | 21 | 28 |
| Aces | 1 | 8 |
| Breaks of Serve | 7 of 20 | 7 of 9 |
While Rybakina led in winners and aces, her unforced errors were a critical factor in the match. Both players managed to break serve seven times, yet Lys capitalized on more opportunities.
Next Challenge: Eva Lys vs. McCartney Kessler
Looking ahead, Lys will face McCartney Kessler in the fourth round. Their previous encounter resulted in a win for Lys, and another victory would secure her first-ever appearance in a WTA 1000 quarterfinal, likely elevating her into the top 50 of the PIF WTA rankings.
Kessler Advances After Krejcikova Withdrawal
McCartney Kessler progressed to the fourth round after Barbora Krejcikova retired due to a left knee injury. Kessler had been trailing but made a significant comeback before Krejcikova decided to withdraw. This marks Kessler’s second career appearance in a WTA 1000 fourth round.
The tournament faced another setback when No. 18 seed Paula Badosa retired due to a left hip injury while trailing Karolina Muchova.
With the excitement building in Beijing, all eyes are on Eva Lys as she continues her impressive run at the China Open.
