‘Feeling fresh’
After capturing a fourth career title in Eastbourne this past June in the build-up to Wimbledon, Ostapenko was thrown a curveball when she tested positive for Covid-19 on the eve of the US Open.
She made the final in Luxembourg in her first tournament back after quarantining and recovering, and is now bidding to reach a third final of the season.
“It's really great because especially after I couldn't play US Open, I was really sad about it because I was in such a great form before,” said Ostapenko.
“I think it's another great opportunity (here in Indian Wells) because it's a big tournament. I just enjoy it. It's last couple of tournaments this season. I'm just going to try to enjoy it as much as possible. But I honestly feel like I can continue the season much longer, but there are not many tournaments left.
“Most of the players are very tired, but I don't feel like that. I'm kind of feeling very fresh.”