Qualifier Richel Hogenkamp notches just her second win at Grand Slam level as she rolls past an out of sorts Heather Watson in the first round of the US Open. The qualifier extends her win streak to nine matches after winning three in qualifying and claiming an ITF title on clay in Belgium a couple of weeks prior.
Hogenkamp stayed focused throughout and her solid play from the baseline was too much for an injured Watson. The qualifier came through the first set with ease in thirty-two minutes. The Brit showed some signs of hope in a tightly contested second set, but 38 unforced errors would be the killer in the end, as Hogenkamp eventually claimed the match in straight sets, 6-3, 7-5.
Hogenkamp takes control
The first set was full of erratic shots from the racket of the Brit, who seemed to be lacking her usual energy. Hogenkamp stayed solid at the baseline and took advantage of the inconsistent play of Watson by getting an early double break for 4-1. Watson fought to get one of the breaks back, but it would be the last game she won in the first set, Hogenkamp taking the first set 6-2, with only one winner from Watson.
The reason behind Watson's sluggishness became clear at the end of the first set when she called for the trainer. The Brit was in tears as she explained her injuries, which at the time appeared to be a back issue. It was revealed after the match that she was suffering from a fever. After taking some medication during the time out and having some treatment on her back she continued on with the match.
Going down fighting
The second set was a far more competitive affair. Hogenkamp kept her focus well after the timeout and looked to be in control at the beginning as she once again got an early break. But injury didn't stop Watson from fighting hard and getting the break back. The Brit looked to be in obvious pain but in contrast to the first set, was having some flashes of good play.
After another couple of shared breaks of serve, the qualifier was beginning to look rattled. Watson tried to take advantage as she ground out a couple of set points on her opponent's serve but in the end, she was unable to capitalize, Hogenkamp stayed focused and fended off the set points.
This would be the turning point in the set, Watson was really beginning to look in a lot of discomfort and Hogenkamp was looking to take advantage. At 5-5, in what was the most grueling game of the match, the fever looked to really be getting the better of Watson. As she tried to hold her serve she was doubled over in pain at the end of most points. The Brit managed to save four break points but was unable to save the fifth and Hogenkamp gave herself the opportunity to serve out the match, finally coming through 6-2, 7-5.