Russia’s Tatiana Prozorova continued her splendid run in the WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open as she booked the first semis seat after beating Belgium’s Sofia Costoulas, 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, on Thursday.
Play Style Change Pays Off for Prozorova
After shocking top seed Tatjana Maria in the Round of 16 on Wednesday, the 22-year-old Russian admitted to changing her playing style from predominantly using slices to now prioritizing spins and more aggressive attacks.
“I’m so happy that I did a great job today against Costoulas,” Prozorova said after their match. “It was really a tough battle between us. Also, it was a change for me in the plan of the game from yesterday to today because yesterday it was a full-slice match, and today it was a lot more spins and aggressive attacks.”
Early on, it appeared Prozorova would be on the short end of the stick this time as Costoulas outpowered and outmaneuvered her. The Russian bet also seemed bothered by the intense afternoon heat as she struggled in the early goings. Fortunately for Prozorova, her familiarity with the Belgian national helped stem the tide.
“I already met Costoulas, and I already knew her style of game,” Prozorova admitted. “So, the very important part for me was to change mentally because the last time, it was unlucky for me because I lost. So, today was very important mentally… Also, I was ready for her aggressive game, and I’m just happy that I did it because it was not easy, actually.”
Prozorova Wants More
After knocking off the top seed and now sealing a place in the semis, Prozorova is naturally happy. But she is certainly far from satisfied.
“I’m so happy with this result… It’s just the second time where I did a good job because I did great [in the] preseason at the end of 2025,” she said. “This is a good result being in the semifinals in the third tournament of the year, but I want more.”
Prozorova can get more, but she’ll need to be even better in the semis as she’s set to take on 2024 Olympic silver medalist Donna Vekić on Friday.
Then again, the Russian ace has already proven she can beat higher-ranked opponents. There’s no doubt she’ll accept the next challenge in front of her as she looks to continue her solid showing to start the season.
