‘Warrior’ Ons Jabeur battles back against Marie Bouzkova to reach last 16 in New York

Ons Jabeur battled from a set down to defeat Marie Bouzkova and secure her place in the Last 16 of the US Open.

Jabeur needed almost three hours to claim a 5-7, 7-6(5), 6-3 victory over the No. 31 seed to extend her lead in the Head2Head series to 2-0.

The 29-year-old has been battling the flu during her time in New York, something which she believes has earned her a ‘warrior’ status.

‘’Man it was a very tough match,’’ Jabeur said afterwards.

‘’We both played really well. She didn't want to stop. She's a great player. This is a tough sport. You always don't want to give up. I really respect her for that.

‘’I think we both had a great battle tonight, and hopefully I'll continue getting this 'warrior' symbol with me during this great tournament."

Jabeur admitted that she could hardly believe that her opponent was playing so well with a leg injury.

She said: "At certain times I was like 'Is she really injured?' I wasn't sure.’’

Despite the win, Jabeur revealed that she is ‘emotionally tired’ but is powering through to avoid the regret of bowing out from the tournament.

‘’Yeah, emotionally could be tired,” Jabeur said.

“But I know if I just let go, I will regret it after. So, I want to continue and stay in New York as long as I can.’’

The No. 5 will next face rising star Zheng Qinwen as she continues her bid for a maiden Grand Slam title.