How was 2022 for Potapova
Russian Anastasia Potapova is the season revelation in terms of progress. Despite being ranked outside Top 100 at the beginning of the year, she managed to enter Top 50, she won her first WTA title, in Istanbul, and she did that coming from the qualifiers, with a 7-victory streak. She then played two consecutive semifinals – in Lausanne (WTA 250) and Hamburg (WTA 250), and also another final, in Prague (WTA 250).
Playing style
Potapova, 21, is an aggressive player and has very good court vision. She loves to hit the ball while running and she often tries – and pulls off – complicated shots. Her tennis has a special intensity: she is able to pressure the opponent from the very first exchanges and also to increase the execution speed as the rally extends.
Big picture
Potapova is considered one of the most promising players in the new generation. Her transition to big tennis – though spectacular – didn’t arrive unannounced. Former World Junior No. 1 and Wimbledon Junior winner, she now tries to replicate those successes in the seniors’ competition: she is closing into the highest spheres, proves to be on the right track, and overcomes new landmarks every single year.
This is her second appearance at Transylvania Open. Unlike last year, when her best result was a WTA semifinal, Anastasia now comes to Cluj with a significantly different – and higher – level of tennis.
