Kvitova victorious in Prague

Originally published on 05/05/18 00:00

The overjoyed Czech could barely contain her excitement after a 4-6 6-2 6-3 success over a resilient Mihaela Buzarnescu – and it’s the first time she has gone a tournament unbeaten on clay for three years.

The two-time Wimbledon champion, who has now obtained 23 titles in her career, was a spectator 12 months ago when Mona Barthel nabbed silverware in the Czech capital.

It’s testament to Kvitova’s strength of character that she has managed to prosper again despite being stabbed in the hand by an intruder at her home just 18 months ago.

The Czech, a three-time champion in 2018, appears to be building momentum ahead on the grass-court season, her surface of choice, and it could be a glorious summer for the likeable 28-year-old.

Elise Mertens’ impressive run of form continued as she defeated Ajla Tomljanovic 6-2 7-6(4) to win the Morocco Open and make it 12 wins on the bounce.

The Belgian, who was also successful in Lugano, Switzerland, last month, has made a significant breakthrough this year.

The first round action at the Madrid Open is already underway and Elina Svitolina began her campaign with a resounding victory. The Ukrainian was rarely troubled as she dismissed Alize Cornet 6-2 6-2.

Karolina Pliskova may not be entirely comfortable on clay, however her recent results suggest she can perform well on the red dirt. The Stuttgart champion continued her winning streak by taking out Elena Vesnina 6-4 6-2.

Elsewhere on the grounds, Caroline Garcia downed Dominika Cibulkova 6-1 7-5, Petra Martic skipped past Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-4 6-2 and Julia Goerges conceded just six games to Timea Babos.

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