Kartal overcame a slow start to secure a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 victory, moving to the brink of her second WTA 1000 quarterfinal.
Indian Wells: British tennis star Sonay Kartal produced another standout performance on the big stage, defeating former Australian Open champion Madison Keys in a thrilling three-set encounter at Indian Wells Open.
Kartal overcame a slow start to secure a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 victory, moving to the brink of her second WTA 1000 quarterfinal.
Despite not feeling at her physical best, Kartal described herself as a “fighter” after sealing another impressive win. The match initially tilted in favour of Keys, who used her experience and power to dominate the opening set. The American, known for her aggressive style, capitalised on several breaks of serve and eventually took control to claim the set.
However, Kartal responded strongly in the second set. Showing renewed energy and determination, she quickly turned the momentum in her favour and levelled the match in less than half an hour with a commanding performance.
The decisive third set remained competitive, but Kartal kept her composure and produced the crucial break late in the set.
She then held serve confidently to seal the victory and book her place in the fourth round at Indian Wells for the second time.
With the win, Kartal also made history by becoming the first British woman to reach the fourth round at Indian Wells twice.
