Muchova fights through stomach problem to reach semi-finals

Karolina Muchova doubled up on her US Open semi-finals, reaching her second in as many editions 6-1, 6-4 on Wednesday with a fighting win over Beatriz Haddad Maia.

The Czech who missed 10 months of play with a wrist injury which threatened her career, was bothered by a stomach complaint which sent her racing off court repeatedly in the second set as she snuck out victory.

The 83-minutes victory was also a struggle for her South American opponent, who was seen by medical officials late in the match for apparent breathing trouble, perhaps more from stress than over-exertion.

Muchova sent over only her second ace on match point to wrap up the difficult victory.

“It was a weird match,” the winner said. “I had problems but I was able to manage them.

“Running to the bathroom and back – I had no choice.

“We got new balls just before I served for it, they were nice in that last game.”

She added: “I’m really happy to be back in the semis. every round here is so tough. I;m sure the semi-final (between the winner form top seed Iga Swiatek and No. 6 Jessica Pegula) will be exciting.”

The unseeded Muchova becomes the second player Czech woman in the Open era to make consecutive semi-finals here after Helena Sukova (in 1986 and 1987.

Brazil is still without a man or woman grand slam hardcourt semi-finalist.