Marta Kostyuk wins all-Ukrainian battle to pick up Rouen crown

Marta Kostyuk during the Billie Jean King Cup on April 12th
Marta Kostyuk during the Billie Jean King Cup on April 12th Photo by MARCIN GOLBA / NURPHOTO / NURPHOTO VIA AFP

Top seed Marta Kostyuk won an all-Ukrainian duel for the WTA title in Rouen on Sunday with a straight sets win over Veronika Podrez.

The 23-year-old Kostyuk won 6-3, 6-4 in the first WTA final between two Ukrainian players.

She succeeded countrywoman Elina Svitolina, who won in Rouen last year as the top seed.

For 19-year-old qualifier Podrez, ranked 209th in the world, it was a first final in her main draw debut at a tour-level event.

Both Kostyuk and Podrez struggled on their serve in the indoor clay final, hitting 12 double faults between them.

But Kostyuk converted six of her nine break point opportunities compared to Podrez, who converted four of seven in the tie, which lasted 1hr 12min.

Kostyuk claimed her second WTA singles title and first in more than three years since her victory in Austin, Texas, in 2023.

Chances are you’re about to lose.

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au