Keothavong to face Sprem in quarters
Anne strolls into the last eight in Memphis after downing Michelle Larcher de Brito
Anne Keothavong is through to the quarter-finals of the WTA Cellular South Cup in Memphis after an emphatic 6-3, 6-1 victory over Portugese 17-year-old Michelle Larcher de Brito.
The 26-year-old put in a dominant performance on serve and fired down six aces to overcome her opponent’s early resistance and coast through in straight sets.
“I played quite within myself today and it was another good performance,” said the British No.3, who reached the semi-final stage at last year’s tournament.
“It’s great to be in the quarters of my first WTA tournament back and I’m happy to be back in this competitive environment.
Keothavong will face 25-year-old Karolina Sprem for a chance to feature in the last four in Memphis for the second year in succession, and though wary of the Croat, Keothavong hopes to continue her good form in the US tournament.
“She’s a tough opponent indoors,” she said of the world No.87, having lost both her previous encounters to Sprem in 2003 and 2006.
“She’s been a top 20 player and is capable of playing really well but I’m feeling good and will give it my best shot.’