Alexandrova to Clash with Bouzkova in Semifinals

MONTERREY: Ekaterina Alexandrova of Russia, the second seed, delivered a compelling performance, overcoming the defending champion Linda Noskova with a score of 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-2. This victory secures her spot in the Monterrey Open’s US Open qualifier semifinals on Thursday.

Following a pair of closely contested initial sets, Alexandrova, who holds the 14th position globally, began the deciding set assertively. Despite Noskova’s determined attempts to even the score at 2-2, Alexandrova took charge again through forceful baseline maneuvers and reliable serves, wrapping up the match in just over two hours.

In her post-match comments, Alexandrova spoke about the difficulties she encountered during the contest.

“I am very happy that I managed to get through, even if it took three sets, because today was challenging. Her serves were excellent, and she hit powerfully from the baseline, leaving me with few options at times,” she stated.

She recognized Noskova’s superior skills and conveyed her satisfaction with her own steadfastness in critical moments.

In the upcoming semifinal, Alexandrova is set to compete against Marie Bouzkova from the Czech Republic, who progressed after defeating Antonia Ruzic of Croatia, 6-3, 6-2. Additionally, Russian player Diana Shnaider advanced to the semis, rallying from a set behind to defeat Elise Mertens, the fifth-seeded player from Belgium, 3-6, 7-6(6), 7-6(4) in a demanding three-hour match, while saving five match points.

Shnaider’s next opponent will be Alycia Parks of the United States, who triumphed over Rebecca Sramkova from Slovakia, 6-2, 7-5. Shnaider currently holds a 2-1 lead in their head-to-head record against Parks, which includes a straight-set victory at Indian Wells earlier this year.

Notably, the US Open 2025 is scheduled from August 24 to September 7, featuring top-tier athletes from across the globe competing in New York.