World No. 39 Anastasia Potapova has stated she believes she is currently in the best form of her career. The Russian player secured a victory over China`s Zheng Qinwen in the second round of the Madrid Open, winning with a score of 6-4, 6-4.
When asked about her surprise upon learning this was her first win against a Top 10 player since 2023, and if she feels such results should occur more frequently, Potapova responded:
“Yes, perhaps I`ve just been defeating opponents ranked 11th or 12th, which might be why it felt like it hadn`t been that long since my last Top 10 victory – it felt like it couldn`t possibly be true. Naturally, I desire to achieve such wins more often and secure these matches with greater conviction.”
Regarding where she feels her game level stands and where she believes she should be ranked with her current quality of play, Potapova confidently stated:
“I feel I can break into the Top 20 – I sense I am performing at that level, and I ought to be there. Of course, I won`t make any absolute guarantees, as everyone aspires to climb higher in the rankings, but I am convinced that I am currently in the peak form of my entire career.”
Potapova`s next match will be against American player Sofia Kenin.
Gilbert Pendleton