Indian-America Hibah Shaikh reaches ITF W35 Final in Brazil
Indian American tennis player Hibah Shaikh, a former star for the University of Virginia (UVA), has put together an impressive run to reach the singles final of the ITF World Tennis Tour W35 tournament on the clay courts of Cuiaba, Brazil.
Currently ranked 763rd in the WTA, Shaikh showcased formidable form throughout the week, securing a series of victories against higher-ranked opponents. Her journey to the championship match is a significant step in her professional career following a decorated collegiate tenure where she achieved a career-high NCAA singles ranking of No. 18 and earned All-American honors.
Shaikh is now set to face the tournament’s top seed, Jasmin Ortenzi of Argentina (WTA No. 287), in the final showdown.
To reach the championship match, Shaikh put together a string of notable wins:
- First Round: Defeated Marian Gomez Pezuela Cano (WTA No. 1158) with a convincing 6-2, 6-2 victory.
- Second Round: Overcame the second seed, Miriana Tona (WTA No. 415), in a tight three-set battle, 6-1, 4-6, 6-3.
- Quarterfinals: Dispatched the fifth seed, Martina Capurro Taborda (WTA No. 548), in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.
- Semifinals: Continued her impressive run by beating the seventh seed, Ana Candiotto (WTA No. 605), with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-1.
This performance in Brazil marks one of the most successful professional tournament runs for Shaikh, demonstrating the skill and competitive spirit she honed during her time as a leading player in collegiate tennis.
