Pliskova Advances in Doha as Defending Champion Anisimova Forced to Retire in Third Set Thriller

Karolina Pliskova advanced to the second round of the WTA Qatar TotalEnergies Open in Doha on Monday after a dramatic encounter that saw defending champion Amanda Anisimova forced to retire in the third set. The Czech veteran prevailed 5-7, 7-6(3), 4-1 ret. after two hours and 22 minutes of intense tennis that showcased both players' fighting spirit before Anisimova's physical limitations ended her title defense prematurely.

The match represented a significant test for both players, with Anisimova seeking to defend her 2025 crown and Pliskova looking to rediscover the form that once made her a Grand Slam finalist and world number one. Anisimova struck first, taking the opening set 7-5 with aggressive baseline play that initially overwhelmed Pliskova's typically steady game. The American's powerful groundstrokes and court coverage suggested she might cruise to victory.

However, Pliskova demonstrated the resilience and experience that has defined her career, raising her level significantly in the second set. The match evolved into a battle of contrasting styles, with Anisimova's aggression matched by Pliskova's precision and tactical awareness. The second set tiebreak became pivotal, with Pliskova seizing control at the crucial moments to level the match and shift momentum decisively in her favor.

In the third set, Anisimova's movement became noticeably compromised, and after falling behind 4-1, she made the difficult decision to retire rather than risk further injury. The retirement was a disappointing end to what had been a high-quality encounter, and it means Anisimova's reign as Doha champion comes to an abrupt conclusion. For the defending champion, health concerns will now take priority as she evaluates her condition moving forward.

Pliskova's advancement continues her solid start to 2026, and the victory over a player of Anisimova's caliber—even with the retirement caveat—provides valuable confidence. The former world number one has struggled with consistency in recent seasons but showed in this match that she remains capable of competing at the highest level when her serve and forehand are firing effectively.

Elsewhere in Doha, qualifier Camila Osorio also benefited from an opponent's retirement, advancing when Emma Raducanu withdrew in the third set of their match. The tournament also saw impressive performances from rising star Qinwen Zheng, who rallied from a set down to defeat Sofia Kenin 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, and qualifier Tereza Valentova, who continued her breakthrough week by defeating Alexandra Eala in straight sets.