Haddad Maia becomes first Brazilian woman to reach French Open last 16 in 44 years

NEW DELHI: Beatriz Haddad Maia on Saturday achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Brazilian woman in 44 years to advance to the last 16 of the French Open. In a hard-fought match at Roland Garros, she secured a 5-7, 6-4, 7-5 victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova.

The 14th seed received plenty of vocal support from the stands as she emulated the 1978 and 1979 feat of Patricia Medrado.

"There are many Brazilians here, I am very happy and grateful for the support, it is very special to be able to represent you all," Haddad Maia said.

The 27-year-old broke into the Top 20 last year after winning back-to-back titles on grass in Nottingham and Birmingham, and reaching her first WTA 1000 final in Toronto.

Haddad Maia will face Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo in the fourth round on Monday.

(With inputs from Reuters)