Potapova credits boyfriend Griekspoor for mental edge in Madrid upset run
Lucky loser Anastasia Potapova reaches first WTA 1000 semifinal in Madrid, crediting boyfriend Tallon Griekspoor for crucial mental support during comeback win over Pliskova.
An unexpected run for Anastasia Potapova in Madrid.
As a lucky loser, the Austrian advanced to the WTA 1000 semifinals on Wednesday, her first in this category of tournament.
She defeated experienced Karolina Pliskova in three sets (6-1, 6-7, 6-3), despite trailing 3-1 in the third set.
The decisive role of Griekspoor
A victory earned with great character for Potapova, also supported by the presence of Tallon Griekspoor in her box, her partner for over a year.
In the press conference, the world No. 56 discussed the importance of the Dutchman in this success and the impact of his support in decisive moments:
"He has a great future as a coach. He arrived at the right time to help me. He believes in me enormously and says things that others don't dare to say. Today, he told me to shut up and start working with my legs. He gave me a lot of energy. I won the match physically, but he won it mentally."
