On Saturday, February 18, 2017, after an exciting final match, history was made at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. This 15th edition of the WTA Premier tournament was filled with torrential rain, thunderstorms, and chilly weather. But, these conditions didn’t stop Karolina Pliskova, world No. 3, from beating Caroline Wozniacki, world No. 18, and taking the title in straight sets 6-3, 6-4.
After winning her quarter-final and semi-final matches on Friday, Pliskova entered into the final match on Saturday with a deep desire and drive to win. This focus on the final was rooted in a history she was ready to break, and a future she’s worked hard to create.
“Her history in Doha and head-to-head against former World No. 1 Wozniacki was both against Plisokva,” stated Gulf Times. “The 24-year-old had never gone past the second round in Doha and Wozniacki had won all three of her previous matches against Pliskova.”
However, after last year’s Wimbledon, Pliskova changed her team who has helped improve her game. With guidance from a new coach and help of a new fitness coach, Pliskova has worked hard to improve what she says to be the weakest part of her game – her movement.
This past week at the Qatar Total Open, Pliskova’s hard work was evident and paid off as the confident and much-improved player dominated on the court. With this win, she claimed her second WTA title of the year, following her most recent victory in January at the Brisbane International, and eighth career singles title overall.
According to beIN Sports, Pliskova said of her Qatar Open win, "It's amazing, it means so much to me to win the tournament.”
Pliskova will meet Wozniacki again and other world-class athletes in Dubai this week for the WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. With Pliskova’s Qatar Total Open win, coupled with her confidence and improved play, will she be as successful in Dubai as she was in Doha?
Let us know your thoughts on this year’s 2017 Qatar Total Open and your predictions on who will win the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. Also, don’t forget to give us a like and a share!
Photo source: Raytohgraphy Services
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