Alexandrova Falls To Mertens Despite 11 Match Points At Libema Open

David

2 min read

Post on Jun 16, 2025

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Alexandrova's Heartbreak: Mertens Survives 11 Match Points to Win Libema Open Thriller

Ekaterina Alexandrova's stunning Libema Open campaign ended in dramatic fashion today, as she squandered an incredible eleven match points before falling to Elise Mertens in a nail-biting final. The match, a rollercoaster of emotions and breathtaking rallies, will be remembered as one of the most dramatic WTA finals in recent memory.

The Russian star, seeded second, started strongly, dominating the early exchanges and showcasing the aggressive baseline game that had propelled her through the tournament. She appeared to be cruising to victory, seemingly having the match firmly within her grasp. However, Mertens, the ever-resilient Belgian, demonstrated her champion's mentality, clawing her way back from the brink of defeat with exceptional grit and tactical prowess.

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Eleven Match Points, One Missed Opportunity

The turning point arrived in the second set. Alexandrova, serving at 5-4 and holding a commanding 40-0 lead, had her first match point. What followed was a series of agonizing missed opportunities. Eleven times, she had the chance to seal the victory, but each time, Mertens responded with a defiant shot, a clever drop shot, or a well-placed serve. The crowd, a mix of stunned silence and roaring encouragement, witnessed a masterclass in resilience from the Belgian.

"It's unbelievable," Mertens said in her post-match interview. "I just kept fighting. I knew Ekaterina was playing incredibly well, but I believed I could find a way back. To come back from eleven match points down... it's something I'll never forget."

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Mertens' Resilience: A Defining Moment

Mertens' performance was a testament to her unwavering determination. She showcased exceptional court coverage, anticipating Alexandrova's powerful groundstrokes and consistently returning the ball with precision and power. Her ability to remain calm under immense pressure was truly remarkable, showcasing the mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level of professional tennis.

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Alexandrova's Near-Miss: A Bitter Pill to Swallow

For Alexandrova, the loss must be incredibly difficult to accept. While she played an exceptional match overall, the missed opportunities will undoubtedly linger. Despite the heartbreaking defeat, her run to the final in 's-Hertogenbosch solidified her position as a rising force in women's tennis. Her powerful game and consistent performance throughout the tournament have certainly caught the attention of tennis fans and experts worldwide.

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Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

This Libema Open final showcased the incredible skill and determination of both players. While Alexandrova will undoubtedly be disappointed, the experience will be invaluable. Mertens' victory, a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit, secures her a prestigious title and sets the stage for an exciting season ahead for both these talented athletes. Both players now turn their attention to preparing for the upcoming tournaments on the WTA tour.

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Keywords: Alexandrova, Mertens, Libema Open, WTA, tennis, match points, final, s-Hertogenbosch, Elise Mertens, Ekaterina Alexandrova, tennis news, women's tennis.