Caroline Wozniacki is in a defiant mood after winning the bigger title of her career at the WTA Finals.
The Dane held her nerve to defeat Venus Williams in straight sets for the first time after suffering seven previous losses to her. Hitting 19 winners, four aces and only eight unforced errors. Overall, Wozniacki has produced 89 winners to 50 unforced errors in the entire season-ending tournament in Singapore. Ensuring that she will end the year in the world’s top three from the first time since 2011.
“I’m really proud of how I have played all week and how I have fought and how I really produced some great fighting out there.” Said Wozniacki.
“To be here with the trophy means a lot, and it’s a great way to finish off the year.”
Wozniacki’s Singapore triumph completes what has been a solid season for her. For the first time in six years she has featured in eight WTA Finals within the same season. Against top 10 opponents she has scored 14 wins, including three over No.1 players (Karolina Pliskova in Toronto, Garbine Muguruza in Tokyo and Simona Halep in Singapore).
“I’m very happy the season is finished right now. I will finish on a high.” Stated the Danish player, who will rise to No.3 on Monday.
“Eventually we have to draw a line in the sand and say it’s been a great one. In a month’s time, I will start preparing for the next season, but for now I will not be touching a racquet for the next four weeks, and I will just be doing a little bit of fitness to keep my shape up.”
It hasn’t always been a smooth journey for the 27-year-old. During her career, she has spent 67 weeks as world No.1, but is yet to win a grand slam trophy. Last year she was also troubled by injuries and dropped to as low as 74th. Wozniacki has grown accustomed to those criticising her achievements, but the Dane couldn’t care less about what anybody else thinks.
“I don’t know, and I don’t really care, to be honest. I know I have done well and I have had a great career.” She swiftly replied when asked if the Singapore title has helped her ‘prove a point.’
“I’m proud of my achievements, and I’m proud of being able to just fight my way from a little kid to all of a sudden being one of the best tennis players in the world. Very few people can say that, and I’m proud of that.”
Twice a US Open runner-up, it is evident what the Dane is targeting in 2018. Although she is reluctant to talk about it. Wozniacki chooses instead to live in the moment and not focus on what could lie ahead for her. An approach that is bringing her success on the tour.
