Alexandrova downs Pegula in Doha to continue winning streak

Having already stunned world number one Aryna Sabalenka, Alexandrova came from a set down to earn a dominant 4-6 6-1 6-1 victory in one hour and 42 minutes on Thursday.

The Russian lifted her fifth WTA title at the Linz Open two weeks ago, but found herself on the backfoot immediately as Pegula broke her serve in the opening game.

Though Alexandrova responded, her advantage was snatched from her grasp by the American, who cruised through the remainder of the opener to take the early lead.

But the world number 26 turned on the style in the second, claiming an early break of her own before winning the final three games in a row to take the encounter the distance.

Alexandrova's dominance continued in the third. After losing the opening game, she won the next six to seal her progression, converting match point at the second attempt.

She will face either Marta Kostyuk or Amanda Anisimova in the semi-finals.

8 - Ekaterina Alexandrova has won their last eight matches, equalling their longest career winning streak in WTA main draws. Cruise.#QatarTotalEnergiesOpen | @QatarTennis @WTA @WTA_insider pic.twitter.com/OTRF8M1pGQ

— OptaAce (@OptaAce) February 13, 2025

Alexandrova has shown she has the ability to compete with the best in Doha, and she will fancy her chances of reaching the showpiece match of the tournament on Sunday.

She has now won her last eight matches, equalling her longest career winning streak in WTA main draws (Seoul title - Ostrava semi-final in 2022 and 's-Hertogenbosch title - Berlin semi-final in 2023).