American Emma Navarro received a significant boost ahead of her first participation in the Australian Open when she won her first title in her professional career by defeating Belgian competitor Elise Mertens 6-1, 4-6, 7-5 in the final of the Hubert International Championship, part of the preparations for the first Grand Slam of the current season.
Navarro dominated the game initially, quickly taking the first set. However, the experienced Mertens, who was aiming for her third Hubert title, made a strong comeback in the second set, which was played in windy conditions. After a fierce battle and leading 5-4, Mertens managed to win the second set, leveling the match and forcing a decisive third set after the seventh break of serve in that set.
The two players exchanged breaks in the final set, with Navarro ultimately taking a 6-5 lead before sealing her victory with a strong forehand shot near the line. In the first round of the Australian Open next Monday, Navarro, ranked 27th, will face Chinese player Wang Xiyu, while Mertens will meet Egyptian Mayar Sherif.
