Dubai: The highest seed at this yr’s Dubai Responsibility Free Tennis Championships, Elina Svitolina, was despatched packing within the second spherical in Garhoud by Svetlana Kuznetsova.
The silence within the fan-free floor matched the shocked Ukranian’s exit after she slumped to a 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 defeat by the hands of the Russian world No. 36.
Svitolina appeared to be in good condition as she breezed by the opening set, however Kuznetsova upped her recreation and the world No. 5 had no reply as she crumbled within the decider.
Earlier this week, two-time Dubai champion Svitolina admitted the drop in WTA prize cash because of the COVID-19 pandemic has diminished her motivation however added that gamers should study to regulate their expectations.
On a day of three-setters, Arab No. 1 Ons Jabeur from Tunisia defeated 14th seed Elena Rybakina 7-6, 4-6, 6-2.
There was misfortune for Petro Kvitova as she retired injured handy Switzerland’s Jil Teichmann a walkover. The Swiss will face Jabeur within the subsequent spherical.
There was higher information for ninth seed Garbine Muguruza, as she eased by 6-4, 6-2 over Amanda Anisimova of the US. With some main seeds dropping, the draw is absolutely opening up for Spaniard Muguruza — the 2017 Wimbledon champion — and the likes of reigning French Open champ Iga Swiatek, who defeated Misaki Doi of Japan 6-2, 6-4.
There will probably be an intriguing battle between the Spaniard and Pole within the spherical of 16.
