The Romanian tennis player Simona Halep, who is yet to make her mark on the WTA tour this year, will be playing her first-round match at the Mutua Madrid Open tomorrow. As a clay-court specialist, Halep is one of the favorites to win the tournament. 

Halep is known for her unwavering determination on a tennis court. There are numerous instances where the Romanian’s form has dipped during the middle of a set, and it looked like she would lose the match. 

“Always I liked to fight for the chance” – Simona Halep

With her defensive and clutch return games, Halep can claw her way back into the match against any opponent, and that’s why she is known as the equivalent of Rafael Nadal on the women’s tour. 

It’s not easy to bounce back after losing consecutive games in a tennis match, especially against a tough opponent. But Halep has done it time and again, which reveals her immense determination. 

Speaking about how she can win matches from the brink of defeat, the Romanian explained, “Always I liked to fight for the chance I have at every match… I didn’t give up because I really wanted to make great results in my career.”

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Also read: “Back on the Clay”: Simona Halep Recovers From Injury and Begins Preparation for Her Favorite Season

Halep’s determination to win a grand slam dates back to 2014 when she played against Maria Sharapova in the French Open final. It was an enthralling contest, but the Russian emerged on top with a 6-4, 6-7(5),6-4 victory. It was a match composed of longer rallies, and the tennis world saw the defensive skill of Halep. 

“I trust myself to do great things” – Halep on how she manages match pressure

The Romanian also talked about how she worked with a psychologist to improve her mental game and said, “I worked with a psychologist on the mental part. It helped me to get more confidence in myself, to trust that I’m able to do great things. When I face a challenge during a match, I embrace it and I start fighting.”

It’s evident from her words that embracing a tough challenge during a match is what has made her a multiple grand slam champion. Halep’s most recent victory from being down a set was against Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open. 

With her experience of playing the big points well, Halep is one of the prime contenders to win the French Open title this year. 

Also read: BRILLIANT: Simona Halep Tops WTA Clay Court Power Index