Update – July 06, 2023 at 01:40AM
It was a tense and emotional affair on Wednesday as Anett Kontaveit, the former world No 2, battled through three rain delays and a resilient opponent, Lucrezia Stefanini, to secure a hard-fought victory in the opening round of the women’s singles. The match, initially set to be a low-key event on Court 6, turned into a captivating display of determination and skill that would ultimately determine Kontaveit’s fate and future in the sport.
For Kontaveit, this was more than just a match. The Estonian tennis star had publicly declared that defeat would inevitably mark the end of her illustrious career due to her chronic and untreatable back problems. With everything on the line, Kontaveit summoned every ounce of strength and courage to script a crucial triumph.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Kontaveit showcased her exceptional talent and experience, weathering the stormy conditions of unpredictable weather delays. The match, initially scheduled for 11 am, would stretch out for hours, finally concluding just before 4 pm. In an impressive display of mental fortitude and resilience, Kontaveit emerged victorious, defeating Stefanini with a scoreline of 6-4, 6-4.
Kontaveit’s remarkable win not only salvaged her dreams of continuing in the tournament but also granted her an opportunity to face the No 32 seed, Marie Bouzkova, in the following round. Recognizing Kontaveit’s achievements and undeniable contribution to the sport, it is only fitting that she is afforded a stage befitting her talent and stature.
The Business Press 