Ekaterina Alexandrova showcased her skill and determination as she defeated Diana Schnaider with a score of 6-3, 6-4 in a tightly contested match lasting 1 hour and 32 minutes, securing her place in the final of the WTA 500 tournament in Ningbo. Alexandrova will now face off against Elena Rybakina in what promises to be an exciting final showdown.
Despite Schnaider’s aggressive play, which included earning 10 break points—eight of which came in the first set—Alexandrova managed to maintain her composure. She saved three break points in the opening game, quickly establishing dominance by breaking Schnaider’s serve in the second game. With a strong start, Alexandrova held her serve at love in the third game and went on to build a commanding 5-1 lead after achieving a double break in the sixth game. Though Schnaider managed to break back once, Alexandrova closed out the first set with precision, capitalizing on her second set point after overcoming two break points in the ninth game.
The second set began with both players exchanging breaks, but Alexandrova regained her advantage with another break to lead 4-3. Schnaider fought valiantly, saving multiple match points while serving to remain in the contest. However, Alexandrova proved too strong, ultimately sealing her victory with a forehand winner on her sixth match point.
In their upcoming final, Alexandrova holds an advantageous 3-1 record against Rybakina in their previous encounters and clinched their most recent meeting in straight sets. Rybakina, who could inch closer to securing her spot in the WTA Race to Riyadh, will be looking to disrupt Alexandrova’s momentum.
As the tournament draws to a close, fans can look forward to a thrilling final that could have significant implications for the players’ standings in the tour. With both competitors showing remarkable tenacity, the stage is set for an electrifying finale.