STUTTGART, Germany: Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko powered into the Stuttgart Grand Prix final on Sunday with a decisive 6-4, 6-4 victory over fellow unseeded player Ekaterina Alexandrova. This remarkable win sets the stage for an exciting final against world number one Aryna Sabalenka, who overcame Italy's Jasmine Paolini with a score of 7-5, 6-4 to reach her fourth final in five years.
Ostapenko, 27, has been on a roll this tournament, showcasing her fierce competitive spirit and powerful groundstrokes. She notably stunned five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals, improving her lifetime record against the Pole to an impressive 6-0. "I don't know but I feel amazing playing here," Ostapenko exclaimed after her semifinal victory. "So pumped up. Those kinds of matches, winning three sets, gives you confidence. I was putting a lot of balls in. I am very happy with myself."
The match against Alexandrova showcased Ostapenko's aggressive style from the outset. After breaking serve in the first game, she was quickly broken back but regained control by breaking Alexandrova again to take a 4-2 lead. The Russian, who had already upset sixth seed Mirra Andreeva and world number three Jessica Pegula earlier in the tournament, struggled to handle Ostapenko's thunderous forehand and relentless pressure.
As the match progressed, Ostapenko maintained her momentum, breaking Alexandrova early in the second set to secure her path to victory. The Latvian's performance was characterized by her ability to hit flat winners and consistently apply pressure on her opponent, a tactic that has served her well throughout the tournament.
In the final, Ostapenko will face Aryna Sabalenka, a player she has yet to meet in a final. Sabalenka, a three-time losing finalist in Stuttgart from 2021 to 2023, is known for her powerful play and fierce competitiveness. After a challenging semifinal against Paolini, where she initially took a 3-0 lead before being pushed to the limit, Sabalenka expressed her respect for her opponent, stating, "She makes me work, work for every point. She is a great player. It is hard to get the win. I was just trying to stay aggressive, to put as much pressure on her."
Ostapenko's journey to the final has been nothing short of impressive. Before defeating Alexandrova, she triumphed over Dayana Yastremska, Emma Navarro, and Swiatek, demonstrating her ability to compete against top-tier players. Her victory over Swiatek was particularly notable, as it marked her first clay-court encounter with the former world number one.
On the other hand, Alexandrova's path to the semifinals included impressive wins against Liudmila Samsonova and Jessica Pegula, showcasing her own talent and determination. With a head-to-head record against Ostapenko standing at 5-5 prior to their semifinal match, both players were aware of the stakes and the intensity of their rivalry.
As the final approaches, fans are left to wonder how Ostapenko will fare against Sabalenka. The two players have contrasting styles, with Ostapenko's explosive power and Sabalenka's tactical finesse. This matchup promises to be an exhilarating encounter, with both players eager to claim the title.
Ostapenko's performance in Stuttgart marks her second final on clay, the first being her triumphant run at the French Open in 2017. Her resurgence in form and newfound confidence could prove pivotal as she seeks to add another title to her collection.
As the tournament draws to a close, the anticipation is palpable. Will Ostapenko continue her impressive run and secure the championship, or will Sabalenka assert her dominance as the top seed? One thing is certain: the Stuttgart final is set to be a thrilling clash of talent and determination.
