Sonay Kartal's impressive run at Indian Wells was cut short by world number one Aryna Sabalenka, who won comfortably 6-1, 6-2. Despite the loss, Kartal noted her performance showed improvement, expressing disappointment yet pride in her progress over the past year. Originally ranked outside the top 250, her unexpected entry into the main draw led to three significant victories, earning her a place in the last 16 of a WTA 1,000 event. She will rise to 63rd in the world rankings, reflecting a remarkable year of growth for the young athlete.
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 of the tournament but I have made huge strides from this time last year.
Having been put into the main draw after Sloane Stephens' withdrawal through injury, Kartal made the most of her opportunity.
Kartal is set to move up to 63rd in the world rankings next week - a new career high and just three places below her former childhood rival Emma Raducanu.
At the start of 2024, Kartal feared she would not play again that season because of a health scare that left her 'in and out of hospital'.
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