Polina Kudermetova's Dream Run: First WTA Final at Brisbane International
Polina Kudermetova has truly been making waves at the 2025 Brisbane International, reaching the final in what has been a fairytale run for the 21-year-old Russian. Ranked 107th in the world, the qualifier showed immense resilience and skill as she battled through to her first-ever WTA Tour singles final, defeating Anhelina Kalinina in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, in a semi-final that lasted just over an hour and a half.
It’s been an unforgettable journey for Kudermetova, who had to come through qualifying to even participate in this tournament. Her path to the final included impressive wins, notably over third seed and world number nine Daria Kasatkina. In the semi-final against Kalinina, Kudermetova demonstrated both mental and physical toughness, despite a few shaky moments early on. She was forced to save two break points in the opening game, which had many wondering if nerves would affect her play. But the Russian kept her composure, breaking Kalinina’s serve in the sixth game to take a 4-2 lead.
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Even when she faced adversity, like blowing four set points while serving for the first set, Kudermetova stayed focused and calm. She eventually broke Kalinina’s serve again to win the first set after a tough battle. Kudermetova also had to receive treatment on her right arm before starting the second set, but that didn’t hold her back. She continued to play with confidence and determination, breaking Kalinina’s serve once more to seal her place in the final.
What makes Kudermetova's success even more remarkable is that this is her first appearance in a WTA 500 final. Despite her unseeded status and low ranking, she has showcased tremendous skill throughout the tournament. Kudermetova’s aggressive style, including 40 winners and a collection of stunning drop shots, has been a highlight of her play. “The drop shots are my favourites,” she said, clearly enjoying the opportunities to execute this tactic.
Ahead of the final, Kudermetova is set to face either world number one Aryna Sabalenka or the rising 17-year-old star, Mirra Andreeva. But for the Russian, the opponent doesn’t matter. “For me, it doesn’t matter because it’s my first final in these big tournaments, and I’m so excited that I’m in the final,” she expressed with a smile.
This milestone is a significant moment in Kudermetova’s career, and regardless of the final outcome, she has already proven herself a formidable force in women’s tennis. Her impressive run at the Brisbane International has captured the attention of tennis fans worldwide, and it seems only a matter of time before she makes an even bigger splash on the WTA circuit.
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