Belgian third seed Elise Mertens beat Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3 7-6 (4) within the closing of the Libema Open in Den Bosch on Sunday to say her second WTA Tour title of the 12 months, including to her victory within the Singapore Tennis Open in February.
The win earned Mertens her tenth WTA singles title and first on grass, although she has gained the Wimbledon girls’s doubles title in 2021, whereas additionally extending her profitable head-to-head document in opposition to Ruse to 4-0.
“It has been an unimaginable week,” stated Mertens, who needed to dig deep to avoid wasting 11 match factors and overcome two-times winner Ekaterina Alexandrova in Saturday’s semifinal.
“I imply yesterday I had 11 match factors in opposition to me. I managed to nonetheless win that match. It is tennis, something can occur. So I am very proud that I took that likelihood yesterday and at the moment.”
Mertens trailed 3-1 within the first set after being put underneath early stress by the Romanian qualifier.
The Belgian recovered from her shaky begin and saved two break factors to safe a vital maintain within the fifth recreation, which turned the tide of the competition.
The set was introduced again on serve at 3-3 after Ruse double-faulted twice, and Mertens rapidly reeled off three extra video games to clinch the opener, with Ruse taking a prolonged medical timeout between the units and having her thigh strapped.
The pair traded breaks midway by means of the second set and Ruse was capable of earn two set factors at 5-4, however Mertens confirmed nice resilience to carry serve and drive a tiebreaker, which she powered by means of with little hassle.
“Initially, I wish to congratulate Elise. You beat me each time, so what can I say,” stated Ruse, who dedicated seven double faults within the match.
“I am actually unhappy and indignant, however I’ll strive subsequent time… I am very happy with myself. I did not anticipate to be within the closing right here. It is such a pleasant event.”
