Tennis: Gadecki falls short against Frech in Guadalajara final
Olivia Gadecki could not continue her winning ways in Guadalajara on Monday morning (AEST), with the Australian falling in straight sets to Magdalena Frech in the WTA 500 event’s final.
Gadecki had been on a hot run at the Guadalajara Open, powering through qualifying before beating four consecutive top-100 players to make her first-ever WTA Tour final.
Tennis betting sites were unable to split Gadecki and Frech ahead of the decider, with Bet365 paying $1.90 for each.
However, Frech’s experience came through in the big moments, with the Pole winning a tight first-set tiebreaker before coming from behind to win the second set and claim the title, 7-6 (5), 6-4.
While Gadecki will not be celebrating her maiden title this week, she still moves through to a career-high ranking of No.88 in the world.
This is the 22-year-old’s first time inside the world’s top 100 and makes her the highest-ranked Australian woman.
“I’m so happy that I’ve been able to play my first final here in Guadalajara, and I can’t wait to come back,” declared Gadecki after the match.
“Thank you everyone for coming out to support us.
“You really made a big difference this week. You really made me feel the love.”
The victory is a milestone for Frech as well, who also hits a career-high ranking after winning her first WTA Tour title.
The Pole is now No.32 in the world, having previously been as high as No.42.
“I just want to say that dreams do come true, for sure,” Frech said.
“It’s my first WTA title and it’s really, really amazing.
“It’s an unbelievable feeling for sure.
“We keep going. Let’s win more.”
Frech had been in fine form en route to the final, seeing off former world No.4 Caroline Garcia in the semi-finals.