Fernandez vs. Mboko Set for Thrilling Hong Kong Open Semifinal
Hong Kong Open Semifinal: Tennis fans are in for a treat at the Hong Kong Open as Canadian stars Leylah Fernandez and Victoria Mboko prepare to face each other in the semifinals. Both players delivered standout performances in their quarterfinal appearances to secure their spots in the final four.
Fernandez Cruises Past Cirstea
Second seed Leylah Fernandez earned a confident win in her quarterfinal match, defeating Romania’s Sorana Cirstea, the seventh seed, in straight sets. Fernandez stayed composed under pressure and wrapped up the match 6–4, 6–4.
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Final Score: 6-4, 6-4
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Break Points Saved: 4 out of 5
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Break Points Converted: 3 out of 9
This victory marks Fernandez’s second win over Cirstea in the same month, having previously beaten her at the Japan Women’s Open. That earlier win contributed to her growing list of career titles. In this match, Fernandez stood out for her resilience, especially on defense.
Mboko Advances After Kalinskaya Retirement
Third seed Victoria Mboko booked her place in the semifinals after Russia’s Anna Kalinskaya, seeded sixth, was forced to retire mid-match. Mboko was already in full control with a 6-1, 3-1 lead when the match ended. The contest lasted just 48 minutes.
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Match Status: Kalinskaya retired
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Match Duration: 48 minutes
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Aces: 9
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Total Points Won: 61.8%
Mboko’s powerful serve was a key factor, as she landed nine aces. After struggling post her maiden WTA title at the National Bank Open in Montreal—enduring four straight losses—Mboko seems to be rediscovering her form. She also reached the quarterfinals at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo last week.
First-Ever Face-Off in the Semifinal
The upcoming match will be the first head-to-head meeting between Fernandez and Mboko. With both players in strong form, expectations are high for a tense and exciting battle.
In the other semifinal of this WTA 250 tournament, fifth-seeded Australian Maya Joint will go up against Cristina Bucsa of Spain.
