Potapova’s remarkable Madrid run continues as lucky loser reaches historic semi-final

Anastasia Potapova produced a stunning turnaround at the Madrid Open, becoming the first lucky loser to advance to a WTA 1000 semi-final after edging past Karolina Pliskova in a gripping quarter-final encounter, Sport360NG reports. 

The Russian-born Austrian, who had initially fallen short in qualifying, earned a late entry into the main draw following a withdrawal. She has since capitalised on that second chance in spectacular fashion, defeating former world number one Pliskova 6-1, 6-7(4), 6-3 to extend her dream run in the Spanish capital.

Potapova’s path to the last four has been anything but straightforward. The 25-year-old had already eliminated former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko and world number two Elena Rybakina before overcoming Pliskova in a match that tested both resilience and composure.

Reflecting on her journey, Potapova admitted she had not envisioned such progress after her qualifying exit.

“I wouldn’t have believed this for anything,” she said. “That’s what makes tennis so special, I got another opportunity and now I’m here. I’m incredibly happy.”

The quarter-final appeared to be heading for a routine finish when Potapova dominated the opening set in just 24 minutes and later held three match points in the second. However, Pliskova mounted a spirited comeback, forcing a tiebreak before levelling the contest.

The Czech veteran carried that momentum into the deciding set, racing into a 3-1 lead, but Potapova refused to fade. She responded emphatically, winning five consecutive games to regain control and ultimately sealed victory with her 10th ace, dropping to her knees in celebration.

Potapova will now face 26th seed Marta Kostyuk in the semi-finals after the Ukrainian dispatched Linda Noskova 7-6(1), 6-0 in their quarter-final clash.

Elsewhere, in the men’s draw, Jannik Sinner continued his dominant form, booking his place in the semi-finals with his 21st consecutive victory.