Magnificent maaya

Mumbai Open WTA: India’s rising tennis star, 15-year-old Maaya delivered a stunning performance at the L&T Mumbai Open WTA 125, defeating Belarusian Iryna Shymanovich 6-4, 6-1 to advance to the Round of 16 at the Cricket Club of India. Displaying remarkable maturity, the young sensation outplayed her more experienced opponent with precision and composure.

Maaya set the tone early in the opening set, regaining control after a 2-2 tie with powerful serves, including four aces, to secure the set 6-4. Her aggressive baseline play kept Shymanovich on the defensive. In the second set, Shymanovich attempted a comeback, engaging Revathi in long rallies, but the Indian teenager remained unfazed. Executing well-placed shots with impeccable timing, she pressured her opponent and sealed the match with a brilliant ace, drawing resounding cheers from the home crowd.

Meanwhile, India’s wildcard entry Ankita Raina dominated compatriot Vaishnavi Adkar, securing a 6-2, 6-2 victory. Raina’s tactical precision and unwavering composure were evident as she broke Adkar twice in the first set while saving two crucial break points. Her aggressive returns and controlled baseline play kept Adkar on the back foot. Despite a brief fightback from Adkar in the second set, Raina capitalised on unforced errors to swiftly close out the match in straight sets.