Romanian tennis player Simona Halepová.
Twitter@hawt_red
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The two-time Grand Slam champion was originally scheduled to play in Palermo last week, but she withdrew from the tournament there at the last minute due to coronavirus complications. It upset the Italian organizers.
The Romanian star arrived in Prague and gained more confidence in organizing international tennis tournaments at this uncertain time. “At the beginning, I was a little scared. But I felt very safe because everyone respected all the rules and restrictions. If people are able to organize tournaments like this week, then we have a great chance to play again,” she said in a video conference.
Czech tennis players celebrate the title. Sick Rosol failed
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There was a completely different regime than in regular tournaments. Tennis players and all other actors were regularly tested. In addition to matches, training, exercise and meals, it was mandatory to wear veils and it was not recommended to walk outside the designated areas, ie the tennis complex and the hotel. “It’s very different and we have to adapt. It’s a bit stressful, but the fact that everyone was fine these ten days is proof that everyone did well. I would like to thank everyone because everyone worked hard here,” she said. Halep.
“It feels so good to be back on the court and I’m so happy that I could win this tournament.”
The post-match interview with the #pragueopen2020 winner @Simona Halep ???????????? pic.twitter.com/vBziR93eKL
— Prague Open 2020 (@tennispragueopn) August 16, 2020
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In the final against the Belgian Elise Mertens, she liked how she managed to adjust her game and find a counter-weapon after the first two lost games. There were seven games won in a row. She led 4: 2 in the second set, but then lost the lead. “I was dead. I was very tired and I didn’t move well,” she said.
The signing of the first tournament week after a long break was signed on it. “It’s very difficult to get back into the rhythm of the match. And the emotions on the court and the strict rules. It wasn’t easy to follow all the rules for ten days. But I have to take it positively. I was able to win this tournament, which means a lot to me.” confided the former world number one.
He certainly plans to play European clay tournaments, including the Grand Slam Roland Garros, but it is not yet clear whether he will go overseas. He plans to announce the final decision on (non) participation in the US Open on Monday.
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