Kvitova into Doha final
Originally published on 17/02/18 00:00
It’s a 12 consecutive success for the uncompromising Czech, and it’s the fifth time she has defeated a reigning world No.1.
Standing between Kvitova and a 22nd career title is Garbine Muguruza. Whilst the Czech was engaged in a fatiguing battle with the Dane, her next opponent was resting within the confines of her hotel room.
The Wimbledon champion was due to play Simona Halep in the last four, but the Romanian pulled out the competition on Friday due to an ongoing ankle problem.
Kvitova’s winning habit helped her stay composed in tight moments, and she bludgeoned 50 winners as she recovered from a precarious position to surprise the world No.1.
Wozniacki served for the match on two occasions in the second set, however she failed to apply the finishing touches and paid the consequences. Kvitova’s level of play yo-yoed throughout, but her aggressive approach proved to be more of a help than a hindrance.
“I was spraying it everywhere in the second set,” admitted Kvitova. “It was important for me to put some more balls back into the court and try to calm down a little bit.
“Even though I was losing, I was still trying to get back somehow. I know that I can return her serve (Wozniacki’s) and maybe break her. I was just waiting for the opportunity to break, and it came.
“In the tiebreak I was down and really angry, but I tried to hit some winners and it worked.
The final will begin not before 15:00 (GMT) on Sunday. Kvitova has won three of her four previous meetings with Muguruza, including their most recent showdown at the US Open last September.
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