Dominant Belinda Bencic sweeps past Linda Noskova to capture Tokyo crown
Bencic Cruises Past Noskova to Win Tokyo Title
Belinda Bencic eased past Czech sixth seed Linda Noskova 6-2, 6-3 on Sunday to win the Pan Pacific Open title in Tokyo, claiming her 10th WTA crown and second of the year.
The Swiss, who also triumphed in Abu Dhabi in February, avenged her 2014 final loss at the same tournament and capped an impressive comeback season after returning from maternity leave in 2023.
Bencic, ranked No. 13, broke twice in the opening set and sealed the win with a crisp forehand after 85 minutes.
“Tokyo has always been a happy place for me,” said the 2021 Olympic gold medallist. “It’s really special to win here again.”
Noskova, 20, who advanced to the final after Elena Rybakina’s withdrawal, praised her opponent:
“Belinda played incredible. I really look up to her — coming back after giving birth is such an achievement.”
Share this content:
