In a heartfelt moment following her victory at the Transylvania Open in Cluj-Napoca, Anastasia Potapova took the opportunity to pay tribute to her long-time idol, Simona Halep. The Russian tennis star, who clinched her third WTA title by defeating Lucia Bronzetti 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, expressed her admiration and respect for the Romanian tennis icon.
Potapova, who was the No. 1 seed in the tournament, shared her thoughts on Halep’s illustrious career and her decision to retire due to a serious knee injury. “The last thing I want to say, Simona is the one I’ve always looked up to,” Potapova said on the court. “She’s been one of my idols all the time. At the start of the week, I wished her to come back to where she should be. When I saw that she decided to finish her career, I felt really sad. But she achieved something I can’t even dream about… yet. For me, she will always stay a champion. I wish that she enjoys life after tennis. She deserves it completely.”
Halep, who announced her retirement during the tournament, expressed mixed emotions about her decision, noting that she was “always realistic” with herself and that the injury was too serious to continue her career. Despite the sadness of her retirement, Potapova’s tribute highlighted the impact Halep has had on her career and the tennis world at large.
Potapova’s words resonated with fans and fellow players alike, serving as a beautiful reminder of the respect and admiration that athletes have for one another. As Potapova continues to build her own legacy, she will undoubtedly carry the lessons and inspiration she gained from Halep with her.
Anastasia Potapova said some beautiful words about Simona Halep’s retirement after winning Cluj:
“The last thing I want to say, Simona is the one I’ve always looked up to. She’s been one of my idols all the time. At the start of the week I wished her to come back to where she… pic.twitter.com/hV59r76I3q
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 9, 2025
Anastasia Potapova in 2025
Now ranked no.31, Potapova played her last match on the 9th of February when she overcame world no.56 Lucia Bronzetti 4-6 6-1 6-2 in the final in Cluj to win her 3rd career title.
This season Potapova owns an overall 10-3 win-loss record. The Russian conquered 1 title in Napoca.
Simona Halep in 2025
Now the world no.859, the Romanian played her last match on the 4th of February when she capitulated to world no.56 Lucia Bronzetti 6-1 6-1 in the 1st round in Cluj (draw).
At present, during this year Simona has achieved a compiled 0-1 match record.
Anastasia Potapova and Simona Halep squared off 3 times. Their record is 3-0 for Halep.
