How Did Mboko Reach the Adelaide International Final?
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Synopsis
In a stunning performance, Canada's Victoria Mboko defeated Australia's Kimberly Birrell to secure her spot in the Adelaide International final. With a dominant playstyle and impressive winners, she is poised to make waves at the upcoming Australian Open. Will she claim her third title this season? Read on for all the details!
Key Takeaways
- Victoria Mboko displayed exceptional skill by winning against Kimberly Birrell.
- She aims for her third title in six months.
- Mboko has proven her capacity to compete against top-ranked players.
- Her recent performances have made her a player to watch at the Australian Open.
- She was named WTA Newcomer of the Year for her achievements this season.
Canberra, Jan 16 (NationPress) Victoria Mboko of Canada triumphed over Australia’s Kimberly Birrell in straight sets on Friday, earning her place in the Adelaide International final.
Ranked No. 17 in the world, Mboko showcased her skills with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 win that lasted just 59 minutes during the semifinals of this event, a precursor to the Australian Open.
The 19-year-old, who received the WTA Newcomer of the Year title in 2025, dominated the match, winning nine consecutive games to gain an early advantage.
Her victory was capped off with a stunning forehand down the line on her second match point, marking her 24th winner compared to Birrell’s mere seven.
"It feels great because my previous matches have been lengthy, so I was pleased to play more aggressively today," Mboko stated on court after her win, according to reports from Xinhua.
In the final, Mboko is set to face either Mirra Andreeva, ranked No. 8, or Diana Shnaider, ranked 23rd, before the 2026 Australian Open, commencing on Sunday.
Should she win on Saturday, it would mark her third title in less than six months, following her initial singles title at the Canadian Open in August and her second at the Hong Kong Tennis Open in November.
Earlier in the tournament, the young star defeated the ninth-ranked Keys with a score of 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 in a match that lasted one hour and 53 minutes, achieving her second victory against a top-10 player.
Mboko broke Keys early to take the first set but faced challenges against the American's powerful serve in the second. However, she regained her composure in the final set, winning 75 percent of points on her first serve and capitalizing on the only break opportunity she had.
Her rapid ascent has been one of the standout narratives of the season, having been named WTA Newcomer of the Year after her victory at the National Bank Open in Montreal, rising from No. 333 to No. 18 in the world rankings.
Meanwhile, Birrell is slated to face her fellow Australian Maddison Inglis in the first round of the Australian Open.
Point of View
Victoria Mboko's rapid ascent in the world of tennis is nothing short of remarkable. Her performance at the Adelaide International not only highlights her potential but also adds excitement leading up to the Australian Open. As she prepares for her next match, the nation watches with anticipation, rooting for her continued success.
NationPress
16/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Victoria Mboko defeat to reach the final?
Victoria Mboko defeated Kimberly Birrell of Australia in straight sets, 6-2, 6-1.
What is Victoria Mboko's world ranking?
Victoria Mboko is currently ranked No. 17 in the world.
When is the Australian Open scheduled to begin?
The Australian Open is set to begin on Sunday, January 22, 2026.
What titles has Mboko won recently?
Mboko has won titles at the Canadian Open and the Hong Kong Tennis Open in the past six months.
Who will Mboko face in the final?
Mboko will face either Mirra Andreeva or Diana Shnaider in the final.
