'It's been tough': Kasatkina capitalises on last-minute wildcard to break 561-day title drought

(Catalonia Open)

Daria Kasatkina has claimed her first title since becoming an Aussie after winning a WTA 125 category event as the seventh seed.

The former world No.8, who will rise to 66th in the world when the new rankings are officially released at the start of this week, saved two match points in her opening round match against Emiliana Arango, before fighting back from a set down in the final to defeat Germany's Tamara Korpatsch 2-6, 6-3, 7-5, in a match that saw a combined 19 breaks of serve.

It marks Kasatkina's first WTA title since her victory in Ningbo in October 2024, spanning 561 days.

"It's been a tough few, well, I mean many months to be honest, starting last year, and this year was tough as well," she said on court after claiming the title.

"As soon as I found some confidence at the beginning of the year, I got injured, and then I had to stop for a couple of months. Coming back is not easy, so I'm really happy with the way I was able to fight during this time here, and super happy with the title because it's been a tough week as well."

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She later posted on Instagram: "Thanks @cataloniaopensolgirones for an amazing week and a last-minute WC. Felt all the love and can’t describe how happy I am to lift this trophy after a long time of struggle. Thanks everyone for your support. Now off to Rome."

Kasatkina, who turns 29 later this week, found herself leading 5-1 in the decider with a championship point on serve, but opened the door for her German opponent to complete a stunning comeback.

"I was one point away from winning a match, and then apparently it's 5-5, so it's tough not to lose your mind in this moment, but that's sport, and I was really happy how I was able to manage that because it's been a very difficult moment.

"I really enjoyed my time here. I love Spain... the vibes here are nice, and this tournament is more calm than the others."

She was offered a last-minute wildcard into the tournament held in La Bisbal d'Empordà, and will be hoping to use her latest run as confidence heading into the WTA 1000 in Rome and Roland-Garros.

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