Belinda Bencic Reaches Pan Pacific Open Final in Tokyo

Belinda Bencic secured her place in the Pan Pacific Open final with a hard-fought 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-2 win over American Sofia Kenin on Saturday. This marks her second final at the tournament, a decade after her first appearance. The Swiss player showed resilience and determination throughout the match, keeping her hopes alive for her second title of the season.

The match began under the centre court roof at Ariake Coliseum due to rain, as both players maintained strong serves in the opening 12 games. The first set remained tightly contested until a tense tiebreak. Bencic elevated her level at the critical moment, hitting a forehand winner to capture the opening set 7-6(5), giving her a crucial advantage early in the contest.

Kenin Responds Strongly
Former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin came back strongly in the second set. She broke Bencic’s serve in the fourth game and overcame a minor wobble on her own serve in the next game. Kenin’s aggressive play allowed her to take the second set 6-3, leveling the match and forcing a decisive third set.

In the final set, Bencic regained control and broke Kenin for a 3-1 lead. She maintained her momentum despite some minor errors from both sides. The 28-year-old Swiss player showcased her experience and composure, ultimately winning the decider 6-2. With this victory, Bencic moved one step closer to claiming her second WTA title of the season.

Linda Noskova Reaches Final
Bencic will face Linda Noskova in the final after the Czech player advanced via a walkover. Noskova’s opponent, Elena Rybakina, withdrew from their semi-final match due to a back injury. Rybakina had qualified for the upcoming WTA Finals in Riyadh by reaching the semi-finals in Tokyo, securing her place among the season’s top players.

Noskova, who recently finished as runner-up at the China Open to American Amanda Anisimova, will aim to win her second career WTA title. She previously triumphed at the Monterrey Open last year and is looking to continue her successful season by challenging Bencic in the final.

The Pan Pacific Open final promises to be an exciting clash between the experienced Bencic and the rising star Noskova. Both players have shown impressive form and determination throughout the tournament. Fans can expect a competitive match as Bencic seeks her second title of the season, while Noskova aims for