Anastasia Potapova stunned seventh-ranked Ons Jabeur 6-4, 7-6 (4) to advance to the quarter finals of the San Diego Open.
It was the fourth time this year that the 27th-ranked Potapova beat a player ranked in the top 10.
“I think it was my patience, just to stay focused as much as I could because Ons is very tough to play,” the 22-year-old Russian said on Wednesday.
“She’s truly one of the best in the world. I’m really happy and proud to get this win.”
Jabeur, from Tunisia, was the top seed. She landed just 39 of 85 first-serves, had nine double-faults and could never really find any rhythm. But Potapova said it was still difficult to close out the three-time grand slam finalist.
“Tell me about how popular she is — my mother, she loves her so much,” Potapova said.
“Every time I talk to my mom on FaceTime with Ons around, she’s like, Call Ons! She’s my best player!’ They’re actually pretty good friends.”
No. 3 seed Maria Sakkari of Greece advanced when Colombian qualifier Camila Osorio bowed out due to a right thigh injury.
Second-seeded Caroline Garcia advancing to the quarters via a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 win over Sloane Stephens.
