“If Not Next Year…”: Martina Navratilova on When Sebastian Korda Can Win a Grand Slam

Sebastian Korda is an American professional tennis player who came into the spotlight when he lifted the trophy at Emilia-Romagna Open in May 2021. He defeated Marco Cecchinato in the finals to achieve his maiden ATP 250 title. The American dominated throughout the competition without dropping a single set in the whole tournament.

Presently competing at San Diego open in California, Korda beat his countryman Tommy Paul in a thriller three-set round-of-32 match, where Korda had full control in the third set. After the match, Martina Navratilova applauded the American, referring to him as a complete player.

Sebastian Korda is a complete player, says Martina Navratilova

In an interview with Tennis Channel, she said, “Also a matter of time. Seb Korda, a complete player, he keeps his head about him. First time I saw him play I’m like, ‘he’s already been here, in his previous life,’ I don’t know. He’s been coached so well by his parents.

“He’s got such a great game, a great outlook. I think if not next year, I would say also 2023 would be a year for him.” 

Martina Navratilova is a former World No. 1 and 18-time singles Grand Slam champion. After having an extraordinary professional career, she retired in the year 2006.

Korda at San Diego Open

After having an unsuccessful run at US Open 2021, Sebastian Korda is back in action at San Diego Open in California, America. The American got off to a good start, beating Tommy Paul in the first round of the competition.

In the post-match interview, he said, “It was tough. Tommy started playing a lot better. In the first set I was playing really well and dictating really well and then he was coming up clutch in some big moments. I just played better in the third set.” 

Sebastian Korda will face the ninth-seeded Lorenzo Musetti of Italy in the round of 16.

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