"Achieving such performances is simply wonderful," Vondrousova reflects on her victory against Sabalenka in the Berlin semifinals

Marketa Vondrousova has reached the final of the WTA 500 tournament in Berlin. The Czech player, in impressive form, defeated world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets this Saturday afternoon (6-2, 6-4).

Having dropped outside the top 150 due to a shoulder injury that kept her off the court for several months, the 2023 Wimbledon champion is now on the verge of re-entering the top 100—and could climb even higher if she triumphs in Sunday’s final against Wang Xinyu. Meanwhile, the 25-year-old shared her thoughts on her victory over the Belarusian.

"I’m very happy and very grateful to be playing again and to be healthy. When I saw the draw, I thought, ‘Okay, let’s try to win at least one match and take it step by step.’ And now I’m in the final, so I’m really pleased.

Aryna (Sabalenka) is a very tough opponent—she puts pressure on you right from the serve and in every rally. You have to stay extremely focused and try to return as many balls as possible.

In the last game, I saved a break point. I stayed in the match and fought for every point. I think that was very important. I cherish every match, and tomorrow I’ll try to do the same, even though it’s the final.

I’m trying not to put pressure on myself and just enjoy the moment. Last year was a very difficult time. I had surgery and didn’t play for about four months. So being here, playing again, and delivering performances like this is simply wonderful," Vondrousova told Tribuna.