Simona got her 2022 campaign off to a flying start, easing past Zhang Shuai 6-2, 6-3 in 68 minutes at the Mutua Madrid Open
In her first match under the tutelage of Patrick Mouratoglou, Simona secured a quick advantage with two breaks in the first five games of the match. The two-time Grand Slam champion recovered from an early break in the second set, winning six of the next seven games to romp to the second round. She will face world No.2 and home hope Paula Badosa.
Simona has reached the Mutua Madrid Open final a tournament-record four times, winning the title in 2016 and 2017 and finishing as runner-up in 2014 and 2019.
Photo: Jimmie48photography