Story perspectives

Sonay Kartal Upsets No. 5 Andreeva, Reaches Quarter-Finals

10/2/2025

Summary

Story summary

Sonay Kartal secured her career-best victory by defeating world No. 5 Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 2-6, 7-5 at the China Open, marking her first win against a top 10 player.
The match lasted 2 hours and 25 minutes, with Kartal saving a match point.
This win advances Kartal to her first WTA 1000 quarter-final, the first British player to do so in Beijing since 2016.
She will face Linda Noskova, who previously defeated her at the 2023 Italian Open.
Kartal credited her composure on the court as a crucial factor in her performance.

History

Historical Context

Since Andy Murray's historic 2016 victory at the ATP China Open, British tennis has gained momentum. Sonay Kartal's recent achievement in 2025, becoming the first British woman to reach a WTA 1000 quarter-final in Beijing, further emphasizes this trend. With a growing number of competitive players, British tennis is poised for a significant resurgence on the international stage.

1 of 2

Story summary

Sonay Kartal secured her career-best victory by defeating world No. 5 Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 2-6, 7-5 at the China Open, marking her first win against a top 10 player.
The match lasted 2 hours and 25 minutes, with Kartal saving a match point.
This win advances Kartal to her first WTA 1000 quarter-final, the first British player to do so in Beijing since 2016.
She will face Linda Noskova, who previously defeated her at the 2023 Italian Open.
Kartal credited her composure on the court as a crucial factor in her performance.

1 / 2