Tokyo
Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic clinched her 10th career singles title with a commanding 6-2, 6-3 victory over Czech Republic’s Linda Noskova in the Pan Pacific Open final on Sunday. Returning to the Tokyo tournament’s final a decade after her first appearance, Bencic showcased her trademark precision and composure, breaking Noskova’s serve three times en route to victory in just one hour and 22 minutes.
The triumph adds to Bencic’s growing legacy in Tokyo, a city that has brought her some of her brightest career moments. Four years ago, she captured Olympic singles gold and doubles silver at the same Ariake Coliseum, though those achievements came in front of empty stands due to pandemic restrictions.
“It was wonderful playing in front of you guys,” Bencic said after receiving the champion’s trophy. “The last time I won here was at the Tokyo Olympics when there were no spectators. This time, the energy and support were incredible. I love playing in Japan and I’m super happy to finally win this tournament.”
The 28-year-old Swiss endured a grueling path to the final, spending over five hours on court in the previous two days, with hard-fought three-set wins over Sofia Kenin in both the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds.
Noskova, by contrast, had a relatively light route to Sunday’s final, having played just 35 minutes after advancing via a retirement in the quarterfinal and a walkover in the semifinal when Elena Rybakina withdrew due to a back injury.
With the Tokyo victory, Bencic caps a remarkable week, reaffirming her status among the WTA’s most consistent and resilient competitors.
