Alexandrova sets up semi-finals clash with Baptiste at Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open

World no 11 Ekaterina Alexandrova will take on world no 56 Hailey Baptiste at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open semi-finals on Friday after ending Alexandra Eala’s run in straight sets.

Baptiste overcame Liudmila Samsonova in three sets to claim her semi-finals spot.

Meanwhile, world no 16 Clara Tauson advanced over McCartney Kessler in an impressive performance to se up a clash with world no 101 Sara Bejlek. The Czech qualifier dropped just two games to dispatch British No. 2 Sonay Kartal.

"McCartney played some good tennis, but I also played well," said Tauson. "She was hitting some very good winners, but I kept my cool, kept fighting, and that helped me a lot today. It’s great to be in the semi-finals."

In the doubles semi-final on ADCB Court 1, Alexandra Eala Eala and Janice Tjen delivered an impressive performance in front of packed crowds, defeating Cristina Bucşa and Shuai Zhang in straight sets. "We were trying to be aggressive and have fun," said Eala. "When you have a good relationship with your partner, you’re not afraid to go with your gut. If you make errors, it’s okay because you have that chemistry and you’re willing to try what feels right."

Away from the main draw action, history was made at the inaugural Mubadala Wheelchair Tennis Invitational presented by the WTA Foundation. The three-player tournament saw wheelchair tennis legend Jiske Griffioen of the Netherlands defeat María Angélica Bernal of Colombia in today’s opening match, securing her place in Saturday’s final against World No. 1 Yui Kamiji of Japan.

Off the court, the day delivered inspiring moments for fans and the community. Wheelchair tennis stars Griffioen, Bernal and Kamiji hosted a clinic with Heroes of Hope, the UAE’s non-profit sports academy for people of determination, bringing kids onto the court in an unforgettable experience that embodied the tournament’s commitment to inclusivity.

The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open runs through February 7.