Kostyuk Cruises Past Hunter Into U.S. Open Second Round

Marta Kostyuk began her latest Grand Slam campaign with a commanding victory, defeating Australian qualifier Storm Hunter 6-4, 6-1 in the first round of the U.S. Open.

The 11th seed established control early, moving ahead 4-1 before Hunter briefly unsettled her. Kostyuk still closed out the opening set when Hunter double-faulted on set point.

Kostyuk broke early in the second set and never allowed her opponent a path back into the match. She completed the win in 67 minutes.

The Ukrainian arrived in New York after reaching the semifinals at both the French Open and Wimbledon, strengthening her position as a contender in the women’s draw. She had struggled at this year’s Australian Open, but has since produced her best Grand Slam results.

“I’m very happy to be back to this amazing place,” Kostyuk said on court. “It’s not easy to play a qualifier, they’ve played a whole tournament (already). I’m very happy with my performance today. I try to keep myself grounded. There’s still a long way to go, I’m enjoying my tennis.” She will next meet the winner of the match between 2017 champion Sloane Stephens and Clara Tauson.

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I’m very happy to be back to this amazing place. It’s not easy to play a qualifier, they’ve played a whole tournament (already). I’m very happy with my performance today. I try to keep myself grounded. There’s still a long way to go, I’m enjoying my tennis.