Great Britain’s Sonay Kartal has made WTA history by reaching the final of the Wuhan Open in China, the biggest final of her career. Kartal, ranked No 170 in the world, defeated Jelena Ostapenko in a 7-6 (11-9), 7-6 (7-5) victory in the semi-finals.
The 24-year-old has become the lowest-ranked WTA 1000 finalist since the format was introduced in 2009. This tournament is only her second tour-level event since March, following a six-month absence due to a back injury.
Kartal saved all six set points she faced during the two-hour match against former French Open champion Ostapenko. She will face either six-time grand slam champion Iga Swiatek or French Open finalist Maja Chwalinska in Sunday’s final.