Alexandrova Wins Linz Title After Tough Final Battle

Ekaterina Alexandrova, ranked 30th in the world, claimed her fifth WTA Tour title with a hard-fought 6-2, 3-6, 7-5 victory over Dayana Yastremska in the Linz final on Sunday.

The 30-year-old Russian, who had twice finished as runner-up in Linz over the past six years, overcame the Ukrainian, ranked 72nd, in a gruelling 2-hour, 13-minute contest.

“This tournament has always been special for me. I love playing here every time, and now, finally, I’ve made it to the end on my third attempt,” Alexandrova said on court.

“I’m delighted, and this place will always remain special and magical for me.”

Alexandrova dominated the opening set 6-2 in just half an hour, but her 24-year-old opponent responded with a strong 6-3 second set to force a decider.

Yastremska, who made a stunning run to the Australian Open semifinals last year as a qualifier, carried her momentum into the final set, securing an early break.

However, Alexandrova fought back, with both players locked at 5-5 before the Russian raised her level to seal the title.