French sensation Rakotomanga in the São Paulo final: "The Mexicans won't like me too much"

At just 19 years old, Titantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah has qualified for the final of the WTA 250 in São Paulo after an impressive run. Having overcome difficult moments, including an incredible comeback in the first round against Ana Sofia Sanchez, she is preparing to fulfill her dream and will challenge Janice Tjen for her first WTA title.

Rakotomanga is in the final of the WTA 250 tournament in São Paulo. After being down 5-0 and forced to save three match points in the third set of her first-round match, the French player eliminated three Mexican players during her journey: Sanchez, Rodriguez, and Zarazua (6-3, 6-2), as well as Udvardy in the quarterfinals.

The 19-year-old left-hander, provisionally ranked 149th in the Live rankings (her best since the start of her career), reacted to her semifinal victory against Zarazua, who is ranked 84th in the world.

"I think the Mexicans won't like me too much! I was really nervous, especially in the first round. I had a cold and wasn't comfortable on the court at all. But I fought because I felt there was a chance. Now that the machine is rolling, I have to go all the way.

I'm living my dream. Here, I'm discovering a beautiful venue and perfect playing conditions. I fought my whole youth for this. I'm playing in a big stadium and in front of a big crowd. It's wonderful," Rakotomanga Rajaonah told L'Équipe.