Sara Bejlek, the 18-year-old Czech qualifier, has emerged as a surprise contender at the Mutua Madrid Open, reaching the fourth round with a string of impressive victories.
Bejlek, making her WTA 1000 main-draw debut, has defeated three higher-ranked opponents, including former Top 25 player Anna Kalinskaya. Her victory over Kalinskaya marked her first-ever win against a Top 30 player.
Despite her diminutive stature at 5-foot-2, Bejlek has displayed exceptional power and agility on the clay courts of Madrid. Her left-handed forehand and two-handed backhand have proven to be formidable weapons.
Born in a small town near the Czech-Austrian border, Bejlek had a successful junior career, winning the girls’ doubles title at Roland Garros in 2022. She also made waves as a pro that year, becoming the youngest player to compete in the US Open main draw.
Bejlek’s breakthrough on the WTA Tour came last fall when she won her first WTA 125-level title on clay in Chile. She defeated three seeds en route, including former Roland Garros semifinalist Nadia Podoroska.
Coming into Madrid, Bejlek had a modest 6-5 record on the year. However, she has turned that around with her impressive run in the Spanish capital. She has won her last six sets in a row, losing a combined 15 games.
Bejlek’s next challenge will be a fourth-round clash against No.4 seed Elena Rybakina, who has won her last six matches. It will be Bejlek’s first-ever match against a Top 10-ranked opponent.
Despite the daunting task ahead, Bejlek is confident in her abilities. She is an avid dog lover and a talented juggler, demonstrating her versatility both on and off the court.
