Bencic Survives Three-Set Scare to Reach Ningbo Quarterfinals

Overview

• Belinda Bencic beat qualifier Yulia Starodubtseva 5-7, 6-4, 7-5 to advance at the WTA 500 in Ningbo.
• After leading 5-2 in the third set, Bencic failed to convert two match points before breaking again for 6-5 and closing it out.
• Starodubtseva, ranked No. 131, took a medical timeout for a left leg/thigh issue early in the decider and continued.
• The Swiss Olympic gold medalist will face the winner of Jasmine Paolini versus Veronika Kudermetova in the quarterfinals.
• Following the match, Bencic shared screenshots of abusive messages from bettors and also thanked fans for their support.