Simona Halep had to edge an extremely tough Sam Stosur in Madrid to reach the quarters and be closer to defend her title. The Romanian won the match 6-4 4-6 6-4.

I was mentally strong. HALEP

After the match, Simona said that she was prepared to fight a tough battle

“I was very confident when the third set started. I knew that before the match it was going to be a very tough one,” Halep commented.

I think you saw how she served today. She’s an amazing player. She’s very strong, but I think I was strong enough to stay there also with my body, not just mentally.

I felt that mentally I am a little bit higher in this match. She played well today.”

Next vs. Vandeweghe

Simona will face Coco Vandeweghe in the final. They have never played each other so far.