Who Will Rise to the Top? Raducanu, Shelton, Moutet, and Fernandez Advance to Washington Semifinals!

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Emma Raducanu reaches her first WTA hardcourt semifinal in three years.
- Ben Shelton matches his 2023 semifinal performance in Washington.
- Corentin Moutet achieves a significant victory over a Top 20 opponent.
- Leylah Fernandez saves a set point to advance in a tight match.
- Exciting matchups await in the upcoming semifinals.
Washington, July 26 (NationPress) - A captivating day at the Mubadala Citi DC Open saw four players secure their places in the semifinals across both the ATP and WTA tournaments, showcasing thrilling comebacks and standout performances amidst the sweltering heat of Washington.
Emma Raducanu continued her impressive resurgence, clinching her first WTA hardcourt semifinal in three years. The British star triumphed over Maria Sakkari in a grueling two-hour, 10-minute contest, winning 6-4, 7-5 despite an early setback. This victory marked her finest display in the U.S. capital and extended her perfect record against Sakkari to 4-0. Raducanu is set to face Anna Kalinskaya of Russia, who pulled off an upset against Clara Tauson to reach the semifinals.
On the men’s side, Ben Shelton delivered a spectacular performance, halting Frances Tiafoe’s journey in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. Shelton showcased his powerful forehands and bold serves, securing a 7-6(2), 6-4 victory. The 22-year-old left-hander matched his semifinal appearance in Washington from 2023 and is now ranked No. 7, his highest ever. He will face the victor of the match between Taylor Fritz and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
Another surprise emerged as Frenchman Corentin Moutet shocked World No. 14 Daniil Medvedev with a thrilling 1-6, 6-4, 6-4 win. Following a weather delay, Moutet returned to break Medvedev’s serve and secure the match, marking his first ATP semifinal above the 250 level and his fourth victory over a Top 20 opponent on hard courts.
On the WTA side, Canada’s Leylah Fernandez continued her impressive run, defeating Taylor Townsend 6-4, 7-6(4). Fernandez overcame a second-set deficit and saved a set point to reach her largest hard-court semifinal since finishing as runner-up at the 2021 US Open. She is set to face third seed Elena Rybakina, who comfortably defeated Magdalena Frech in straight sets.
With major players faltering and new talents emerging, the stage is perfectly set for an exhilarating semifinal in Washington.