Instincts and pride. What players are saying in Cincinnati

By Lisa Kruse

Players at the Cincinnati Open are doing more than just playing tennis – they’re talking about destiny, belief and fellow players. Read on for more.

“Things happen for a reason, I guess…It was good to accept I’m injured…I think it was much needed to…spend some time with myself.”

The three-time Cincinnati semi-finalist Aryna Sabalenka,on having to take time off because of injury which kept her from competing at Wimbledon this summer. On Thursday, she won against Elisabetta Cocciaretto. Next for her: former world No. 3 Elina Svitolina.

“You have to just play with your instincts. What I did well today…I kept my focus and was believing until the end.”

Yulia Putintseva, after defeating Coco Gauff Thursday afternoon 6-4, 2-6, 6-4. When reminded of her recent high-quality play in which she bested both world No.1 (d. Swiatek 1R Wimbledon) and world No. 2 (Gauff), she couldn’t help but smile: “Yes, I’m proud of myself…I’m proud of who I am.”

“In 2002, I warmed up with him…he was at the tournament playing as an under-14 player…He didn’t miss a ball…I thought – whoa, this guy is really good.”

Pablo Carreno Busta on the first time he saw countryman Carlos Alcaraz play tennis.

As players move through the draw here, there’s no doubt they will be talking. Stay tuned for more “Said in Cincy.”