Beatriz Haddad Maia's journey at the WTA 1000 in Rome came to a disappointing end on Thursday, May 8, 2025, as she was eliminated in the first round by the Czech Republic's Marie Bouzkova. The match, which lasted 76 minutes, saw Haddad Maia, ranked 22nd in the world, fall to Bouzkova, who is ranked 53rd, with a scoreline of 6-0, 6-3.
This loss marked the first time Haddad Maia was defeated by Bouzkova in five encounters, having previously won all four matches against her. The Brazilian player entered the tournament with high hopes after breaking her first-round curse at the WTA in Madrid just weeks prior, where she secured a victory against American Bernarda Pera. Unfortunately, the momentum did not carry over to Rome.
In the first set, Haddad Maia struggled significantly, suffering three service breaks and failing to pose any real threat to Bouzkova's serve. The Czech player showcased a strong performance, utilizing varied shots and effective net play to dominate the set. Haddad Maia's game was plagued by unforced errors, and she ended the set without winning a game, resulting in a humiliating 6-0 score.
The second set began with both players trading breaks, but Haddad Maia’s positive attitude was not enough to overcome her earlier mistakes. Despite managing to hold serve and momentarily take the lead at 2-1, her rhythm faltered again. A series of errors, particularly with her forehand, allowed Bouzkova to regain control and close out the match in straight sets.
After the match, Haddad Maia expressed her disappointment, acknowledging that she had not played her best tennis. "I was unable to play aggressively and lost my rhythm early on," she reflected. This defeat adds to a troubling trend for Haddad Maia, who has now lost 11 of her last 12 matches.
Looking ahead, Haddad Maia will shift her focus to the WTA 500 in Strasbourg, scheduled from May 18 to May 24, where she aims to improve her form. Before that, she will compete in the doubles event in Rome alongside German partner Laura Siegemund. They are set to face the American duo of Caroline Dolehide and Desirae Krawczyk, the fifth seeds in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Bouzkova will advance to face former world number one Naomi Osaka in the next round. Osaka, currently ranked 48th, recently won a title at a WTA 125 event in Saint-Malo and is riding an eight-match winning streak after defeating Swiss player Viktorija Golubic in three sets.
In other matches at the tournament, Polish star Iga Swiatek made a strong start, defeating local player Elisabetta Cocciaretto in just 54 minutes with a score of 6-1, 6-0. Swiatek, the second seed, is looking to reclaim her form after a challenging season.
American Jessica Pegula, the third seed, also advanced, overcoming compatriot Ashlyn Krueger in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2. Additionally, Italian Jasmine Paolini secured victory against Lulu Sun with a score of 6-4, 6-3, ensuring a strong showing for the home crowd.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Haddad Maia as she seeks redemption in future competitions. Her next steps will be crucial in re-establishing her confidence and competitive edge on the court.
