Emma Navarro was on the brink of exiting Indian Wells in her opening match but then saved two consecutive match points en route to edging out world No. 111 Sorana Cirstea 3-6 6-1 7-6 (3).
ADVERTISEMENT
After losing her serve twice in the opening set and falling down by a set, the No. 10 seed won five consecutive games from 1-1 in the second set to force a decider in style.
But at the start of the third set, the American's level dropped and she lost the opening three games before Cirstea also opened a 5-3 lead.
Down 3-5, Navarro also faced a 15/40 deficit on her serve. On the Romanian's first match point, the American tennis star appeared to be done but then pulled off a stunning lob to save the match point. The rest is history as the home favorite went on to also save the second match point and ultimately force a tie-break - which she dominated to complete her comeback.
In the Indian Wells third round, the 2024 US Open semifinalist will take on Donna Vekic.
Navarro jokes on how she managed to stay calm in tense moments
"None of my team is safe after my matches. I just go back there and start throwing hands, so that's what you guys don't see. I keep it cool, calm, and collected for you guys," the world No. 8 said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Also, the home favorite gave credit to the local fans who came out to support her.
"It was incredible, yeah, you guys are insane tonight, thanks so much for, honestly, one of the best atmospheres I've played in. Um, yeah, it's amazing out here. On Court 2, we had a lot of competition up there, and you guys held your own. So, yeah, good job," she added.
