Tsvetana Pironkova surprised many when she defeated Samsonova in the 1st round of the US Open but today's victory over Muguruza will turn even more heads. Muguruza was considered one of the favourites to win the title heading into the event but her run was stopped early in the 2nd round by a stellar Pironkova.

As unimaginative as it sounds, Pironkova won because she was better. She was better when it mattered the most. Pironkova was shaky in her 1st game eventually losing it but quickly recovered. Muguruza maintened her lead all throughout the 1st set until we arrived at 5-4. The Spaniard had a chance to win the set but she failed to do so and it wall Pironkova needed.

She won the next two games as well clinching the first set 7-5. The 2nd set was a similar affair with Pironkova being better when needed. She patiently awaited her chance and when she got it she took it. She was perfect on her own serve never allowing Muguruza a chance to get back into the match. In the end she won the 2nd set with 6-3 to seal the victory.

The crucial stat is her 1st service winning percentage which was 93 %. She only lost two points as opposed to Muguruza who lost 15. A great run by Pironkova and it will be interesting to see where it takes her. If she continues to play like this, she might go far.

https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1301561932017696769