Sabalenka Given Fright By Bartunkova In Berlin, Eala Also In Semis

BERLIN, June 20 (Bernama-dpa) -- Aryna Sabalenka fought back to defeat Czech 20-year-old Nikola Bartunkova in the Berlin Open quarterfinals on Friday, German Press Agency (dpa) reported.

The world number one prevailed 2-6, 7-6 (7-2), 6-4 in hot conditions at the Wimbledon grass warm-up.

“I think a miracle thing happened,” said Sabalenka, without a tournament win since March. 

“I just saw this little doubt in her head and I tried to really use this small opportunity that I had and I’m glad I somehow found my rhythm.”

She next faces third seed Jessica Pegula, who beat United States (US) compatriot Madison Keys 7-6 (7-5) 7-6 (8-6). 

Linda Nosková also won through and will meet the Philippines' Alexandra Eala, who stunned Ukrainian sixth seed Elina Svitolina 6-3, 6-4.

-- BERNAMA-dpa