Photo Credit: Getty Images
Czech tennis star Karolina Muchova powered through illness to secure a spot in her second consecutive US Open semi-final with a straight-set victory over Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia, 6-1, 6-4. The match saw dramatic interruptions as Muchova battled health issues, leaving the court multiple times during the second set, yet she persevered to triumph.
Muchova dominated the first set, taking it with relative ease at 6-1. However, she began to experience health problems early in the second set, running off the court at 2-1 and again at 3-2, leading to concerns among spectators. At 4-3, she required medical attention from the doctor and physio, further heightening the tension.
Despite the setbacks, the unseeded 28-year-old showcased remarkable resilience, even while refraining from disclosing specific details about her condition. "It was a weird match," Muchova admitted. "I had some problems I don't want to comment on, but I had to keep running to the bathroom and back. Sorry if it disturbed anyone, but I had no other choice."
Muchova's path to the semi-finals is all the more impressive given her return to competition in June, just months after undergoing wrist surgery in February. Her next challenge will be a formidable one, as she is set to face either the world's top seed, Iga Swiatek, or American sixth seed, Jessica Pegula, for a coveted spot in Saturday's final.
Meanwhile, Haddad Maia also struggled with her own physical difficulties, appearing to be in tears as she received treatment from a doctor at 5-3 down in the second set. The Brazilian fought valiantly but was ultimately outmatched by Muchova's determination and skill.
Muchova's journey in this year's US Open exemplifies both physical and mental toughness, as she continues to defy expectations and make her mark on one of tennis' biggest stages.
