Ankita Raina eliminated from the women’s singles qualifiers after losing in straight sets

India’s Ankita Raina has been eliminated from the Australian Open qualifiers following her defeat to Czech Republic’s Sara Bejlek with scores of 6-1, 7-5. This loss on Wednesday (Jan 10) marks the end of India’s participation in the women’s singles qualifiers. However, India’s Sumit Nagal continues his journey in the tournament, progressing to the next round of the men’s singles qualifiers. The upcoming draws for the Australian Open 2024, scheduled for Thursday, are eagerly anticipated, especially to see who the top seeds will be.

Ankita, who had secured a victory in the first qualifying round on Tuesday, was unable to maintain her momentum. Bejlek dominated the match with a strong forehand, capitalizing on five out of six break point opportunities. The first set was particularly one-sided, with Bejlek winning three break points.

Despite a slightly more resilient performance from Ankita in the second set, Bejlek’s net game proved too strong, as she won 83 percent of the net points, clearly outperforming her opponent.

Ankita had previously defeated Spain’s Jessica Maneiro 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (10-4) to progress in the qualifiers, but her aspirations were dashed with the defeat on Wednesday.

Bejlek, just 17 years old, will next face Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove from the Netherlands, as she aims to secure a spot in the main draw.

The Australian Open 2024 draws, taking place on Thursday (Jan 11), will feature 128 players each in the women’s and men’s singles competition. The draw will include defending champions Novak Djokovic and Aaryna Sabalenka, along with other notable players such as Wimbledon champions Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina. Iga Swiatek and two-time runner-up Daniil Medvedev are also among the favorites entering the draw.

The Australian Open 2024 is set to commence on Sunday (Jan 14) and will run until Jan 28, culminating with the final at the iconic Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park.