Epic battle in Dubai: Clara Tauson triumphs over Muchova in thrilling WTA 1000 semifinal

Clara Tauson will contest her first WTA 1000 final after overcoming Karolina Muchova in a thrilling match at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. The world No. 38 continues her inspired form in 2025, now holding a 15-3 record, and will face teenager Mirra Andreeva in a match that will crown a new WTA 1000 champion.

One of the best matches of the season, lasting almost three hours, with both players battling intensely. The 22-year-old Dane’s consistency ultimately prevailed, securing her place in the top 25 next week, reaching her best ranking of No. 23.

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First Set

The first set began with the Dane accelerating from the start, securing an early break that put her ahead 2-0. Tauson held her serve throughout the rest of the set, winning 87% of points on her first serve, compared to Muchova’s low 47%.

Clara Tauson was playing her first WTA 1000 semifinal

The Czech gradually settled into the match, but struggled to hold serve. The former French Open finalist managed to recover the break at 4-4, but Tauson broke back, then served out the set 6-4, showing much more consistency than her opponent, who committed more unforced errors than usual.

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Second Set

Muchova entered the second set with renewed energy, holding her service games with ease. She wasted a break point early on, and from there, neither player posed significant threats for most of the set. The final part of the second set reached an incredibly high level, with several long rallies and both players showing great touch with dropshots and net approaches.

The set went to a tie-break, where Muchova claimed victory, winning 4 out of Tauson’s 6 service points. After two hours of play, the world No. 17 had gained more confidence and leveled the match.

Muchova at 2025 Linz Open few weeks ago.

Third Set

Tauson seemed to feel the pressure early in the third set, committing a couple of double faults, giving Muchova several chances. Both players exchanged breaks in the third and fourth games, keeping the score level at 2-2. Although Muchova appeared to be closing in on another break, doubts crept in on her serve when she was 3-4 down.

They played probably the rally of the tournament, which could easily be considered one of the points of the season, was simply impressive from Muchova. She hit a remarkable lob while executing a behind-the-back shot after a long rallie. Full of confidence, she faced the final stages of the match, showing her immense talent. Nerves seemed to catch up with Tauson as she struggled to maintain control toward the end.

However, the Dane kept her composure, despite being outplayed by her rival. Tauson, playing at an exceptional level, take the control and broke Muchova’s serve.

With her serve, the Dane showed great composure and closed out the match with a 6-4, 6-7[4-7], 6-3 victory, advancing to her first WTA 1000 final and breaking into the top 25. She will now face the teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva, who has already defeated Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina.

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