Here are Simona Halep’s quotes from the English press conference after her semifinal win, 6-0, 6-1 over Marta Kostyuk.
On this being her best performance of the week
Yes, I think every match I played well, today was a little bit different because she doesn’t play like the ones before just hitting the ball, she’s also playing with the slice, she’s changed a little bit the rhythm. It was a great match and I am really happy with the way I played because it’s always tough.
On playing younger opposition
I remember a few matches I played with Li Na, with big champions when very young and I was kind of the same. You have nothing to lose with top players and just go for it no matter what. Everyone does the same at that age.
If she would have been told that she will make a final in her country this year
No chance, it was a tough year, I didn’t expect to play a final this year, no matter where. I trusted, worked hard. I was happy on the court. When you are in a good mood, you play better.
On Transylvania Open having a final between No 1 seed versus No 2
We’ll have no fans, it’s very sad. But I feel them in my heart, they sent me so many messages. It’s going to be amazing to win the title, but it will be a tough match. I want to give my best to win the match.
