Chennai, Tamil Nadu, November 9, 2026: Magda Linette brought the curtain down on the Chennai Open’s journey in India with a remarkable comeback, fighting back from a set down to defeat defending champion Janice Tjen 5-7, 6-1, 6-4 in the singles final here at the SDAT Tennis Stadium on Monday. The Polish third seed completed the turnaround in two hours and 43 minutes, converting her first championship point to claim her fourth career WTA singles title and first of the 2026 season.
The final began at a high intensity, with Tjen showing the form that had brought her the title in Chennai last year. The 24-year-old Indonesian, currently ranked World no. 75, edged a closely contested opening set 7-5. Linette, ranked number 68 in the world, responded emphatically in the second, raising her level to take the set 6-1 and force a decider.
The turnaround was another demonstration of Linette’s resilience across the tournament. The 34-year-old Pole, who reached a career-high ranking of World no.19 in March 2023, came from a set down in each of her last three matches in Chennai to claim the title.
Linette’s all-round game was central to her turnaround. She served effectively, struck strong and deep groundstrokes, and was equally assured at the net with her volleys and smashes. A key tactical feature was the depth she generated with her shots to counter Tjen’s backhand slice, preventing the Indonesian from using it to disrupt rallies and dictate play. The players also had to contend with particularly hot conditions in Chennai.
The deciding set saw Linette move ahead 3-1 after breaking Tjen’s serve. The Indonesian fought back, breaking Linette in the sixth game to level the score at 3-3. However, the Pole immediately regained the advantage with another break in the seventh game. The 2023 Australian Open semi-finalist then showcased her touch and court awareness, drawing Tjen forward with a drop shot, sending her back with a lob before bringing her forward again with another drop shot, and finally finishing the rally with a backhand winner down the line. Serving at 5-4, she earned three championship points and converted the first to complete the victory.
The final was the first meeting between the two players on the WTA Tour. Tjen had arrived in Chennai looking to defend the title that brought her maiden WTA singles crown in 2025. That victory made her the first Indonesian woman in 23 years to win a WTA singles title. She reached a career-high ranking of World no. 35 in August 2026 and was bidding to add a second WTA singles title to her record.
The singles final was originally scheduled for Sunday, November 8, but was postponed to Monday, November 9, at 11AM due to rain and prevailing air quality conditions at the venue. Heavy smoke following Diwali fireworks had affected conditions at the SDAT Tennis Stadium, leading the organisers to reschedule the match.
For her title-winning performance, Linette received US$37,390 (approximately ₹35.13 lakh) and 250 ranking points. Tjen took home US$22,125 (approximately ₹20.78 lakh) and 163 ranking points as the runner-up.
The prizes were presented by TNTA President Vijay Amritraj in the presence of Mr. H. Shanker, Managing Director, Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited; Ms. Mini T. M., Executive Director, Indian Bank; Mr. A. M. Banerjee, Chief General Manager, Indian Overseas Bank; and officials from the TNTA and the WTA.
The 2026 edition marked the conclusion of the Chennai Open’s association with India, with the tournament set to move to the Philippines in 2027.
SINGLES – FINALS RESULT
[3] Magda Linette (POL) def. [1] Janice Tjen (INA) 5-7, 6-1, 6-4
