British tennis star Sonay Kartal’s inspiring journey at the Indian Wells Masters 2025 came to an end after a decisive loss to world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the Round of 16. Kartal, a lucky loser entry, was defeated 6-1, 6-2, but her breakthrough performance solidified her rapid rise in the WTA rankings.
Kartal’s Impressive Rise in the WTA Tour
Kartal, 23, ranked outside the top 250 just a year ago, is now set to achieve a career-high ranking of 63rd next week. Reflecting on her performance, she told BBC Radio 5 Live,
“I was in a lot of the games, and I think I had her rattled at a few points. I’m disappointed to be out, but I’ve made huge strides from last year.”
The British No. 3 initially failed to qualify for the main draw but was granted entry following Sloane Stephens’ withdrawal due to injury. Making the most of the opportunity, she secured three impressive wins over:
- Varvara Lepchenko (USA)
- Beatriz Haddad Maia (Brazil, 16th seed)
- Polina Kudermetova (Russia)
These victories propelled her to the last 16 of a WTA 1000 event for the first time, marking a major milestone in her career.
Overcoming Challenges to Reach New Heights
Kartal’s journey over the past year has been nothing short of extraordinary. In October 2024, she clinched her first WTA title in Monastir, breaking into the top 100 for the first time. However, at the start of 2024, a health scare put her season in jeopardy, leaving her “in and out of the hospital.” Defying the odds, she made a swift comeback and continued her upward trajectory.
Sabalenka Advances to the Quarter-Finals
Three-time Grand Slam champion Aryna Sabalenka displayed her dominance against Kartal, demonstrating her signature powerful ball-striking. She now moves on to face Liudmila Samsonova in the quarter-finals.
Belinda Bencic Stuns Coco Gauff in a Comeback Victory
Meanwhile, former Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic continued her resurgence, defeating American No. 1 Coco Gauff in a thrilling three-set battle 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.
Returning from maternity leave, Bencic has been in outstanding form, winning 17 of her last 21 matches. Her victory over Gauff places her in the Indian Wells quarter-finals—her deepest run in a WTA 1000 event since returning to the tour.
Speaking about her comeback, Bencic shared,
“I always tell myself it doesn’t matter if I win this match, I’ve already won in life. I have a beautiful family, I’m very blessed.”
Bencic, who won the Abu Dhabi Open just 10 months after giving birth, is set to break back into the WTA Top 50 next week.
What’s Next?
Bencic will face Madison Keys, the reigning Australian Open champion, who extended her winning streak to 15 matches after defeating Donna Vekic.
With Kartal’s meteoric rise, Sabalenka’s dominance, and Bencic’s stunning comeback, the Indian Wells Masters 2025 continues to deliver thrilling tennis action. Stay tuned for more updates on the WTA Tour!
