Elise Mertens Sets Record by Saving 11 Match Points in Semifinals

In a remarkable display of resilience, Belgian tennis player Elise Mertens achieved a historic milestone by saving 11 match points during her semifinal match at the Libema Open in 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, on June 14, 2025. Mertens, the third seed, faced off against second seed Ekaterina Alexandrova in a gripping contest that ended with scores of 2-6, 7-6(7), 6-4, marking the highest number of match points saved by a player in a Hologic WTA Tour main-draw match this decade.

Mertens’ comeback was nothing short of extraordinary, as she found herself trailing significantly in the match. "I didn’t even know it was 11; after one or two, I lost count," Mertens stated after her victory. She emphasized her focus on the gameplay rather than the score, attributing her success to her mental toughness. "It was a difficult match; I think she started really well, and it was 6-2, 5-3 for her. I just stayed with my head in the game and gave everything I had. Especially in the third set, I felt like, ‘OK, this is maybe my opportunity.’ So I’m very happy I took that chance," she added.

Mertens’ ability to save match points has become a hallmark of her career. In the 2023 US Open, she saved multiple match points against Mirjam Bjorklund and Danielle Collins, showcasing her resilience on various occasions. Notably, she also saved match points in the 2021 Dubai and US Open tournaments, as well as at Wimbledon in 2022.

The significance of Mertens’ achievement is amplified by the caliber of her opponent. Alexandrova has been a formidable competitor at the Libema Open, having reached the quarterfinals or better in each of the last five editions and securing two titles in 2022 and 2023. Mertens’ victory not only propels her into the finals of the tournament but also underscores her status as a leading player on the Hologic WTA Tour.

Mertens will now await the outcome of the other semifinal match, which features Elisabetta Cocciaretto against qualifier Elena-Gabriela Ruse. As Mertens progresses in her career, her performance in 's-Hertogenbosch serves as an inspiring example of determination and skill, and it will be intriguing to see how she fares in the upcoming final.

The Libema Open, held annually on grass courts, serves as a crucial preparatory tournament for players ahead of Wimbledon, making Mertens’ victory even more significant as she gears up for one of the most prestigious events in tennis. As she continues her campaign, the tennis community watches closely, anticipating further achievements from this resilient athlete.