British teenager Mika Stojsavljevic secures her first WTA Tour main draw win against Sofia Kenin on short notice.
British tennis player Mika Stojsavljevic achieved a milestone on the WTA Tour by defeating former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin in a thrilling encounter. The 17-year-old athlete secured her first main draw victory at the Hong Kong Open despite facing difficult circumstances, according to information published by BBC.
The unexpected triumph came after the world number 411 entered the tournament as a lucky loser following her defeat in the qualifying rounds. Operating under immense pressure, the young competitor delivered a stellar performance to overcome her highly ranked American opponent in three sets.
Reflecting on the rapid turn of events, Stojsavljevic explained how she had to mentally prepare herself almost immediately before walking onto the court. Her remarkable composure allowed her to execute her game plan effectively and clinch the biggest hard court win of her career so far.
Mika Stojsavljevic defeats Sofia Kenin
The hard-fought match ended with a scoreline of 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 in favour of the British qualifier against the 27-year-old former Grand Slam champion. Although Sofia Kenin is currently ranked 224 places above her teenage opponent, she struggled to find consistency against the rising star.
During the encounter, Mika Stojsavljevic hit six winners and successfully saved three out of the eight break points she faced. Her ability to remain focused in the deciding set ultimately dismantled her experienced rival and shocked tennis fans worldwide.
Overcoming late notice at Hong Kong Open
Time was a major factor for the British teenager, who only received confirmation that she would be participating in the main draw one hour before the match started. Without time to overthink the challenge, she simply went out onto the court and swung freely.
The strategy paid off immensely as she embraced the underdog status against a formidable opponent. This victory adds to another impressive performance earlier in the year when she stunned Talia Gibson at Billie Jean King Cup qualifying in April.
Rising star Mika Stojsavljevic junior success
Born in north-west London, Stojsavljevic first started playing tennis at the age of seven at Ealing Lawn Tennis Club after watching her brother practise. Her dedication to the sport propelled her through the junior ranks where she reached a high of fifth in the world.
In 2024, she made history by becoming the first Briton in 15 years to win the prestigious US Open junior title. Following this monumental achievement, she officially turned professional in 2025 and has continued to build momentum on the circuit.
Next round match against Zeynep Sonmez
Following her sensational victory, Mika Stojsavljevic will advance to the second round of the tournament in Hong Kong. She is scheduled to face world number 67 Zeynep Sonmez in her next major test on the professional circuit.
Her ongoing journey highlights the rapid development of British tennis talent on the global stage. Fans and analysts will undoubtedly watch her upcoming matches closely as she looks to extend her impressive run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Mika Stojsavljevic defeat in Hong Kong?
Mika Stojsavljevic defeated former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 to claim her first WTA Tour main-draw win.
How much notice did Mika Stojsavljevic have before the match?
The 17-year-old British player only knew she would be playing an hour before the match started after entering the main draw as a lucky loser.
What are Mika Stojsavljevic's recent career achievements?
She won the 2024 US Open junior title as the first Briton in 15 years, turned professional in 2025, and reached the quarter-finals of a WTA 125 event in Birmingham.
Who will Mika Stojsavljevic face in the next round?
Stojsavljevic will face world number 67 Zeynep Sonmez in the second round of the Hong Kong tournament.
