Tennis player Sonay Kartal from Great Britain experienced a temporary housing problem at the Indian Wells tournament. She had checked out of her apartment in California before she knew she would qualify for the main draw, leading to a hurried search for accommodation during the competition.
The 23-year-old believed her participation in the BNP Paribas Open was finished after being defeated in the final qualifying round.
However, due to another player, Sloane Stephens, withdrawing from the tournament, Kartal received a lucky loser entry into the main draw.
This unexpected opportunity meant Kartal almost found herself without a place to stay at very short notice.
She explained, “I had booked an apartment that covered the qualifying period, so I urgently needed to find somewhere to stay at the last minute.”
“I was without a permanent place to stay for about 12 hours. But it was definitely a positive problem to have.”
Kartal`s Indian Wells journey has been remarkable, and she is now preparing for a significant match in the round of 16 against Aryna Sabalenka, the world`s top-ranked player, on Wednesday.
Previously, the British player won against Varvara Lepchenko in straight sets in the first round, followed by a victory over Beatriz Haddad Maia with scores of 6-2, 6-1 in the second round.
She continued her winning streak by defeating Polina Kudermetova on Monday, securing her place in the fourth round.
Reflecting on her recent match, she commented, “It might have seemed more comfortable than it actually was.”
“My strategy was to maintain my serve, force her to contest every point, and keep the pressure on the scoreboard.”
“I remained composed and elevated my game when it was most crucial.”
