Beatriz Haddad Maia, the Brazilian quarterfinalist from the US Open, displayed impressive resilience to claim the Korea Open title on Sunday. She triumphed over top seed Daria Kasatkina in a dramatic final, winning 1-6, 6-4, 6-1. This victory marks her first WTA 500 singles title and a sweet redemption after losing the final in Seoul back in 2017.
The first set showcased a dominant Kasatkina who, fueled by a flurry of powerful shots, clinched the set in just 26 minutes. Haddad Maia, struggling with her serve, found herself outmatched. However, the Brazilian star began to turn the tide in the second set. Her powerful forehands found their rhythm, and she broke Kasatkina’s serve in a pivotal moment to level the score at 3-3.
The momentum shifted further in Haddad Maia’s favor as she saved a crucial break point to take a 5-4 lead. Her confidence soared, and she clinched the second set with a strong forehand winner. The third set was a testament to Haddad Maia’s newfound dominance. She displayed unwavering control, winning 17 of her 22 service points and breaking Kasatkina’s serve twice in a row to seal the victory.
“Another tough match… Hope we have many more to come,” Kasatkina remarked to Haddad Maia after losing their second encounter. The Russian world number 13 had won their first two meetings.
The 28-year-old Haddad Maia, currently ranked 17th in the world, expressed her desire to return to the Korea Open next year. This victory marks her fourth WTA singles title and a resounding statement of her growing strength on the court.
