French Open: Nadal progresses, Serena to lock horns with Sharapova
2018 French Open has entered an exciting phase with highly anticipated battles on the cards. Men's world number one Rafa Nadal eased into the last 16 as Serena Williams set up a titanic clash with an in-form Maria Sharapova. Spain's Garbine Muguruza and Romania's Simona Halep progressed as well. Here is all what happened on Day 7 of 2018 French Open.
Halep, Muguruza lead charge, Kvitova ousted
In the women's singles third round, 2016 French Open champion Garbine Muguruza thrashed Australian Sam Stosur in straight sets 6-0, 6-2. Simona Halep too went through after a convincing 7-5, 6-0 win over Andrea Petkovic. The big shock of the day arrived in the form of Petra Kvitova, who lost a thrilling 6-7, 6-7 encounter against Estonia's Anett Kontaveit.
Other crucial women's singles results
Former world number one Angelique Kerber stayed in the hunt after a well fought 7-6, 7-6 win against Kiki Bertens. 2017 US Open champion Sloane Stephens also had to dig in after a three-set victory over Camila Giorgi. She won 4-6, 6-1, 8-6.
Serena sets up Sharapova battle in Round of 16
It will be a closely fought battle when Maria Sharapova takes on Serena Williams in the last 16. Serena continued her impressive comeback after an emphatic win against Julia Gorges. The 23-time Slam winner beat the 11th seed 6-3, 6-4. 5-time Grand Slam winner Maria Sharapova produced a statement of intent after breezing past 6th seed Karolina Pliskova 6-2, 6-1.
Rafa continues to build on
Defending champion and 10-time French Open winner, Rafa Nadal continued his victory run after a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 duel against Frenchman Richard Gasquet. Nadal won his tie in just 58 minutes on Philippe-Chatrier. It was a perfect pre-birthday present he could have given to himself. Nadal will next face German Maximilian Marterer, who beat Estonia's Jurgen Zopp 6-2, 6-1, 6-4.
Men's other top guns notch victories
Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro, who is seeded fifth, enjoyed a 7-5, 6-4, 6-1 victory over Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas. Third seed Marin CIlic too surged ahead after a routine 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 win against Steve Johnson. The Croatian will face Italy's Fabio Fognini next. 8th seed David Goffin beat Gael Monfils in an epic 6-7, 6-3, 4-6 7-5, 6-3 clash.
