Sahaja Yamalapalli's Stunning Victory at ITF Women's Open

India's Sahaja Yamalapalli pulled off a major upset by defeating the fourth seed, Russian Maria Timofeeva, in the ITF Women's Open. The 24-year-old Hyderabadi, ranked world No. 315, triumphed 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 against her better-ranked opponent. Sahaja will face eighth-seeded Sara Bejlek in the quarterfinals.

In a remarkable display of skill and tenacity, India's Sahaja Yamalapalli stunned fourth seed Russian Maria Timofeeva to progress to the quarterfinals of the ITF Women's Open. The 24-year-old from Hyderabad, ranked world No. 315, delivered a 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 triumph against the world No. 134 in a two-hour contest.

Yamalapalli's aggression and strategic gameplay were evident as she took charge from the outset, particularly shining in the first and third sets. Her victory sets up a quarterfinal match against eighth-seeded Sara Bejlek from the Czech Republic. Elsewhere, Indian No. 1 Ankita Raina faced defeat against top-seeded German Tatjana Maria, succumbing in straight sets at 1-6, 3-6.

Meanwhile, the tournament witnessed another upset as Linda Fruhvirtova of the Czech Republic defeated the reigning champion Darja Semenistaja of Latvia. Fruhvirtova's 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 victory added to the day's upsets, proving the unpredictable nature of the game this year.

(With inputs from agencies.)