Ankita Raina, India’s top-ranked women’s singles player, overcame past demons and a match point scare to defeat Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-4, 5-7, 7-6(10-4) in the second round of the Australian Open qualifiers on Tuesday.

The 223rd-ranked Raina, seeking her maiden Grand Slam main draw berth, avenged a defeat to the same opponent in the Wimbledon qualifiers last year. The hard-fought victory displayed Raina’s resilience and her ability to rise to the occasion on big points, as she saved a match point in the third-set tie-break before prevailing 10-4.

The first set saw both players trade breaks early on, but Raina found her footing and took the lead at 4-2, only to be broken back again. Undeterred, Raina held serve and broke again to wrap up the set 6-4.

The second set was another tight affair before Bouzas Maneiro seized her opportunity and broke Raina and served it out to take the set 7-5, setting up a nail-biting decider.

The final set was a rollercoaster of emotions. Raina was a break down in the set and also a match point. She was also 3-0 down in the deciding tie break, but won 10 out of the next 11 points to seal the win.

This win marks a significant step forward for Raina in her quest to qualify for her first Grand Slam main draw. She will now face on 17 year old Czech phenom Sara Bejlek in the 2nd round, with a place in the Australian Open two wins away.

Raina’s performance is a testament to her determination and fighting spirit. Her ability to overcome challenges and turn the tide in her favor bodes well for her chances in the remaining rounds of qualifying. Indian tennis fans will be eagerly awaiting her next match, hoping to see her secure her ticket to the main draw of the Australian Open.

Photos from the match –