Papamichail beats Pigossi in straight sets in US Open qualifying

Despina Papamichail came through the US Open qualifying quarterfinals with a 7-5, 6-2 win over Laura Pigossi, edging a tight opening set before pulling clear in the second. The Greek's serve was the steadier weapon: she landed 70.1% of her first deliveries and won 74.5% of those points, with two aces and not a single double fault. Pigossi, by contrast, found only 47.3% of her first serves, won 61.5% of them and coughed up six double faults, leaving her constantly under pressure. That clean, error-free service performance carried Papamichail another step closer to the main draw.