Mika Stojsavljevic Out In Hong Kong Open Last 16 After Stunning Sofia Kenin Win

British teenager Mika Stojsavljevic was eliminated from the Hong Kong Open on Thursday, losing to Turkish world No 67 Zeynep Sonmez in the last 16. The 17-year-old Londoner fell 7-6 (7-5) 6-4 in a match that lasted just over two hours, ending her tournament run. This defeat came a day after she had stunned former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin in the previous round.

Stojsavljevic had entered the tournament ranked 411th in the world but secured a dramatic victory over Kenin on Wednesday. She was restored to the main draw as a lucky loser with only an hour’s notice before facing the American star. That landmark win marked her maiden WTA Tour victory and significantly boosted her standing in the global rankings.

Following her triumph over Kenin, Stojsavljevic moved into the top 350 in the live rankings, placing her just outside the top 400. Her performance has cemented her status as a rising force in British tennis, following a remarkable trajectory in recent months. The 17-year-old continues to make waves on the professional circuit with consistent high-level results.

In 2024, Stojsavljevic became the first Brit in 15 years to win the US Open girls’ title, a feat last achieved by Heather Watson in 2009. Her junior success has translated into senior-level confidence, allowing her to compete effectively against top-tier opponents. She has also represented Great Britain in the Billie Jean King Cup, making her debut against Australia in Melbourne in April.

During that Billie Jean King Cup debut, Stojsavljevic defeated current world No 36 Talia Gibson in straight sets, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. Her opponent in the Hong Kong Open quarter-finals will be Claire Liu, who previously defeated Katie Boulter. The tournament features strong competition, with three-time Grand Slam quarter-finalist Sorana Cîrstea as the top seed.

Alexandra Eala is the second seed in the Hong Kong Open, adding further depth to the draw as the event progresses. The tournament runs until Sunday, providing a final opportunity for players to secure ranking points before the season concludes. The WTA Finals at Indian Wells are scheduled to start on the same day, marking the end of the competitive year.

Stojsavljevic’s journey to the last 16 highlights the increasing competitiveness of young British players on the international stage. Although her campaign in Hong Kong has ended, her recent form suggests a bright future ahead in professional tennis. Fans can follow the remaining matches of the Hong Kong Open as the final rounds unfold this weekend.