Sawt Falasteen - Fruhvirtova, 16, becomes youngest player in Miami fourth round since 2004

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Fruhvirtova, 16, becomes youngest player in Miami fourth round since 2004

SPORTS 27.03.2022

Czech teenager Linda Fruhvirtova on Sunday became the youngest player to reach the last 16 of the Miami Open since 2004 when former world number one Victoria Azarenka retired from their third round match.

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The 16-year-old arrived at the tournament with a world ranking of 279 but she dominated the two-time Australian Open winner, racing into a 6-2, 3-0 lead before the veteran Belarusian quit.

Azarenka, 32, who broke down in tears during her defeat to Elena Rybakina at Indian Wells earlier this month, looked out of sorts throughout against the impressive Fruhvirtova.

It was not immediately clear why Azarenka retired.

"I don't know what happened at the end," Fruhvirtova told AFP.

"She was struggling with some injuries. I don't know but it was an honour to share the court with her.

"You never want to end the match this way but it happens. We shook hands and then she walked off."

Czech wildcard Fruhvirtova is playing in her first major WTA event.

She had already scored an upset victory over Belgian 24th seed Elise Mertens in the previous round on Friday and remains full of confidence ahead of her fourth round match with Spanish fifth seed Paula Badosa.

"I am just happy to get through. New players are coming in and it's exciting to see young players playing on the tour," she added.

"These matches definitely help your confidence, especially at big tournaments like this. Do I think I can win it? Of course, that's the mindset.

"I am playing to be the best in the world."

A.AlHaj--SF-PST

Sawt Falasteen - Fruhvirtova, 16, becomes youngest player in Miami fourth round since 2004

Fruhvirtova, 16, becomes youngest player in Miami fourth round since 2004

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