World No. 39 Anastasia Potapova commented on her victory over Sofia Kenin in the third round of the Madrid tournament, winning 3/6, 6/4, 7/6(6). The Russian player famously saved two match points in the decisive tie-break.
Q: You came back from 4:6 down in the decisive tie-break to win 8:6, saving two match points and immediately closing out the victory. How did you manage that?
A: Honestly, if my opponent has a match point and I save it, I already know I won`t lose. Firstly, my confidence is higher. Secondly, I think there`s a complete collapse on their side after missing match points. My task was to steal this victory, to snatch it by any means necessary. I was completely confident that I could do it.
Q: After your win over Qinwen Zheng in the previous match, you mentioned feeling extremely confident, like a Top 20 player at least. Are you even more so after a comeback like this?
A: For me, the more spectacular the win, the more nerves you expend, the more confidence it gives. Especially saving two match points in a tie-break – that provides a huge mental boost. It`s proof that you can physically and mentally endure something like that.
Q: The way you won now is certainly spectacular. What about a straightforward win like Diana Shnaider`s 6/0, 6/0 – is that also great for confidence, or does it not have the same effect?
A: Easy wins, honestly, usually make me a bit complacent. The easier it is, the worse it is for me. Especially at the start of a tournament when you want to spend a bit more time on court.
Daniil [Medvedev] once said that three hours is his minimum for a start, but then you get into the tournament rhythm right away. Although, of course, sometimes it takes extra energy, and you shouldn`t always do that.
A 6/0, 6/0 win is cool, no doubt, wow. But the main thing is not to lose the thread on the edge between feeling `I`m the best, I can do anything now` and `Let`s keep working`.
