Turkish tennis player Zeynep Sonmez advanced to the second round of Wimbledon 2026 after defeating American Ann Li in a thrilling three-set match on Monday.
Sonmez recovered from a difficult start to secure a 7-5, 1-6, 6-4 victory in the opening round of the grass-court Grand Slam in London.
The world No. 51 faced a tough challenge against Li, who entered the tournament ranked No. 29. However, Sonmez showed determination throughout the contest.
Li dominated the opening stages and quickly established a commanding 4-1 advantage in the first set. Nevertheless, Sonmez responded with aggressive returning and broke serve twice.
She moved ahead 5-4 and created two set points. Although Li briefly fought back with a break, Sonmez regained momentum immediately afterward.
She captured the final two games and claimed the opening set 7-5 after maintaining consistent pressure from the baseline.
Li answered strongly in the second set and controlled nearly every exchange. Consequently, she raced into a 3-0 lead before comfortably winning the set 6-1.
The deciding set remained highly competitive as both players held serve through the opening eight games. Therefore, the score reached 4-4 with neither player creating separation.
Sonmez then produced the decisive break of serve and confidently served out the match to seal a memorable comeback victory.
The Turkish star will now face either American Claire Liu or Belgium’s Hanne Vandewinkel in the second round of Wimbledon.
Moreover, the victory improved Sonmez’s perfect record against Li to three wins from three career meetings. She previously defeated the American at the Merida Open.
Last year, Sonmez made Turkish tennis history by becoming the first player from Türkiye to reach the third round at Wimbledon. Furthermore, she became the country’s first Grand Slam third-round participant since 1950, underlining her rapid rise on the international tennis stage.
