As far as upsets go this Australian Open has seen plenty but veteran Pole Magda Linette rolling French fourth seed Carolina Garcia is up there.
Linette had never been past the 3rd round of a grand slam until now, and she’s into the final eight after defeating one of the most in-form players on tour over the last year.
The 30-year-old Pole fought back from being two breaks down in the opening set to roll Garcia 7-6 (7/3), 6-4 and said even she could not believe the result.
“I don’t really believe it. I can’t believe it really,” Linette said.
“I’m speechless, really.
“I don’t want to say, it was unexpected, because coming on the court I was confident with how well I am playing.
“She is such an
amazing opponent and such a tough one especially on the big stage.“I knew it was going to be super tough and I’m glad that I stayed composed during the first set and managed to come back again.”
Linette said her serve was a key factor in the win as she didn’t allow Garcia the chance to make many inroads and only gave up three break points for the match.
“Once I picked up a little bit on my serve then I was just really focusing to stay
really composed in my service games and just wait for my opportunities on her return games.”
Linette took those and booked a final eight showdown with Czech veteran Karolina Pliskova, who looked in ominous form to trounce China’s Shuai Zhang 6-0, 6-4.
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