WUHAN, China, Oct 18 (Reuters) – Maja Chwalinska, a finalist at the French Open, secured her first WTA title by defeating Sonay Kartal 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 in the final of the Wuhan Open on Sunday. Chwalinska, a left-hander, utilized defensive tactics and variations in her shots to disrupt Kartal’s rhythm.
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Kartal, ranked 170th in the WTA and the lowest-ranked finalist in a WTA 1000 tournament, initially dominated the match with aggressive forehands, while Chwalinska struggled with her drop shots and slices. However, the Polish player regrouped in the second set, dragging Kartal into lengthy rallies and securing three breaks to level the match.
In the deciding set, Chwalinska showcased her resilience by winning four consecutive games to complete the match. This marked her second final appearance on tour after her recent victory over Iga Swiatek, a childhood friend. (Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Purulia, India; editing by Ed Osmond)