A great sportsman always appreciates a good game, irrespective of the result. Sofia Kenin is one such athlete who never fails to acknowledge sincere efforts coming from her opposition.
The reigning Australian Open champion faced Iga Swiatek of Poland in the finals of the French Open 2020. Sofia failed to make an impact in the match as Iga won the final in straight sets. Accepting her defeat, Kenin acknowledged the fact that Swiatek is in some sizzling form this season.
“Obviously a little bit disappointed and upset. She obviously played a really good match. She’s really hot right now, playing some really great tennis,” Kenin stated.
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The American was dejected with her performance in the finals. She was struggling to make the runs and was uncharacteristically slow on the court. Speaking on that issue, Kenin revealed that she had a feeling of discomfort in her leg. However, she abstained from citing it as the reason for her loss.
“I’m not going to use this as an excuse, but my leg obviously was not the best. It’s obviously disappointing.”
Sofia Kenin failed to repeat the Australian Open performance
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Iga stormed into the finals after defeating some well-known names on the circuit. While she warmed up with Eugenie Bouchard, she feasted on Simona Halep in the fourth round. Defeating the top seed not only boosted her performance but also shifted the limelight towards her.
She came into the finals without giving away a set. Kenin was confident of stopping her chariot; although, she failed miserably. She lost the match 6-4, 6-1.
The first set loss to Swiatek brought back the memories of the Australian Open. Kenin faced Garbine Muguruza for the title decider and lost the first set 6-4. However, she came from behind to take the next two sets to march towards her first Grand Slam trophy.
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While many hoped for her resurrection from the second set onwards, Iga drove the final nail in the coffin by taking the second set and went all the way to become the champion of Roland Garros.