Indonesian star Janice Tjen overcame a massive second-set collapse and six match points to defeat Viktorija Golubic in a grueling three-hour battle at the Cincinnati Open.
- Janice Tjen defeated Viktorija Golubic 7-6 (8), 5-7, 7-5 in 3 hours and 14 minutes.
- Tjen held five match points in the second set before Golubic fought back.
- The Indonesian No. 1 moves into the third round to face top-10 player Mirra Andreeva.
CINCINNATI, USA: Tennis is as much a mental game as it is a physical one, and Janice Tjen provided a masterclass in psychological resilience this Sunday. In a marathon encounter that stretched over three hours, the Indonesian sensation secured her place in the third round of the Cincinnati Open by defeating Viktorija Golubic in a rollercoaster 7-6 (8), 5-7, 7-5 victory.
The scoreline barely scratches the surface of the drama unfolded on court. After dominating the second set and leading 5-1 with five match points in hand, Tjen watched as the momentum swung violently in Golubic's favor. However, instead of crumbling, Tjen recalibrated her focus, winning the final three games of the third set to clinch the win and spark a celebratory outburst of relief.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Tjen's ability to navigate high-pressure setbacks is a defining characteristic of her evolving game. As she moves deeper into the tournament, her mental fortitude on hard courts—her preferred surface—positions her as a dangerous opponent for the world's elite.
Winning after losing match points requires a level of emotional maturity that separates rising stars from true contenders.
Tjen, currently ranked No. 37 on the WTA Tour, is finding her rhythm on the hard courts after a season of mixed results. Having spent the summer navigating the unfamiliar terrains of clay and grass during her Roland Garros and Wimbledon debuts, the return to hard courts feels like a homecoming for the Indonesian star.
Beyond the court, Tjen shared insights into the burgeoning tennis culture in Southeast Asia. During a recent break in Indonesia, she even went 'undercover' using the alias 'Brenda' to observe the local tennis community without the pressure of her professional identity. She expressed immense surprise at the rapid growth of the sport in her home country.
Environmental Challenges
The conditions in Cincinnati have not been easy. The combination of high heat and humidity has made the courts somewhat 'skiddy,' a factor Tjen noted as a challenge. While she prefers a higher, bouncier court, her adaptability is being tested as she prepares for her next big hurdle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Who is Janice Tjen's next opponent?
Answer: Tjen is set to face top-10 player Mirra Andreeva in the third round on Tuesday.
Question 2: What is Tjen's preferred playing surface?
Answer: Tjen grew up playing on hard courts and considers them her most comfortable surface.