Emma Navarro caused a surprise by defeating second seed Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 3-6, 6-2 on Wednesday, reaching the quarter-finals in Indian Wells.
The 22-year-old American is ranked 23e at the WTA.
Victorious in just under two hours, Navarro obtained a first career victory against a player in the top 5 in the world.
She dominates the women’s circuit with 18 victories this year including a title in Hobart, the first of her career.
She has a total gain more than the favorite at Indian Wells, Iga Swiatek.
Navarro held a 4-2 advantage in breaks over Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion.
“I was able to stay aggressive on returns even though she has a very good serve,” Navarro said. I managed to put a lot of pressure on him throughout the match. I think that’s what made the difference. »
On Thursday, Navarro will face the Greek Maria Sakkari, ninth seed, or the French Diane Parry, 61e in the world.
A native of Virginia, Navarro was the 2021 NCAA champion.
Coco Gauff celebrated her 20th birthday by beating Elise Mertens 6-0, 6-2.
In the men’s draw, Daniil Medvedev, seeded fourth, got the better of Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, 6-4. He won the last game of the match at zero, on serve.
Casper Ruud dismissed veteran Gaël Monfils 3-6, 7-6 (3) and 6-4.