Ostapenko Delays Post-Match Interview to Watch the Stockings Match, Sabalenka Admits the Battle with Zheng Qinwen Was Draining

In the initial women’s singles quarterfinal at Doha, Latvian standout Ostapenko won in straight sets against lucky loser Kochereto, advancing smoothly to the last four. Yet, she was noticeably absent from the post-match media session for some time.

What was the reason? Afterwards, Ostapenko revealed that she was fully focused on the television, watching the thrilling final set clash between Swiatek and Sakari. She also shared that when Sakari led 5-3 in the deciding set, serving for the match, she predicted, “I think the final set will go to 5-5 or 6-6.” Although the Polish world number one eventually lost 5-7, Ostapenko’s “spoiler” ability amazed the reporters present.

During the post-match press conference, Ostapenko smiled as she explained why she was so captivated by the match: “Sometimes I really enjoy watching matches because some are truly exciting. Other times I’m not in the mood. So when I watch, I naturally analyze and take notes on strategies I can use against these players.”

This candid “scouting report” quickly went viral on social media. Some fans joked, “While others eat bananas during breaks, Ostapenko eats ‘melon’ (meaning watches matches) and even finishes her homework.” Others commented, “This is ‘live coaching’; Swiatek just lost but Ostapenko already has her notes ready.”

International media remarked that Ostapenko’s “spectating” added a dark humor twist to the upset—her nemesis was not only on court but also holding the remote off court.

Compared to Ostapenko’s smooth progress, second seed Sabalenka was less fortunate. Against 19-year-old Canadian rising star Mboko, the newly crowned Australian Open champion fought through three sets but ultimately fell 5-7, 6-4, 4-6.

Despite the loss, Sabalenka delivered one of the most confident statements of the Doha event during her press conference. When asked if she would prefer to win Wimbledon again or capture the US Open or French Open this year, the usually composed Kazakh queen smiled rarely and answered without hesitation, “I want them all! (laughs) No need to choose, any Grand Slam is fine! That’s the goal.”

This brief, powerful reply quickly went viral online. One fan commented, “She’s the queen; the best cure for indecision is wanting it all!” Others compared it to Swiatek’s earlier remarks about skipping some tournaments: “One side wants ‘all,’ the other thinks ‘choices.’ This year’s women’s tennis promises great drama.”

Regarding the defeat, Sabalenka mentioned the “marathon” match against Zheng Qinwen, admitting, “It was definitely a tough match, and I’m actually happy I lasted until the end; I haven’t played such a long match in a while.” She also revealed that distractions from off-court matters during Doha affected her focus, “I think Doha is a good tournament for me, but I had to deal with some off-court issues, which will positively impact my upcoming events.”

With Swiatek and Sabalenka both eliminated, the race for the Doha title has opened up. Ostapenko will face the post-2000 star Mboko in the semifinals, while Sakari will compete against Muchova for the other final spot.

From Ostapenko’s “on-site scouting” to Sabalenka’s “all-Grand Slam” declaration, Doha 2026 has not only witnessed surprising upsets but also the unhidden ambitions of top players.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Lu Xiaotian)