Qualifier Anna Kalinskaya pulled off a stunning upset by defeating World No3 Coco Gauff in three sets to advance to the semifinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
Kalinskaya's comeback victory sets up a surprising semifinal clash with World No1 Iga Swiatek.
Despite facing a medical timeout and trailing in the first set, Kalinskaya showcased resilience to turn the match around, eventually winning 2-6, 6-4, 6-2. The victory marks her second Top-10 win of the week and first Top-5 win.
Meanwhile, Swiatek, fresh off her title win in Doha, continued her dominant run in the Middle East with a straight-set victory over Zheng. Swiatek's win sets up a semifinal showdown against Kalinskaya.
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, continues with both women’s WTA 1000 and men’s ATP 500 events.
Tickets are available online.