Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza has insisted that she isn’t feeling the pressure on the tour after what has been a roller coaster start to the season.
The world No.3 has only only managed to win back-to-back matches in two out of her last six tournaments played. In January she was hampered by an abductor injury ahead of the Australian Open, where she lost in the second round to Su-Wei Hsieh. Her standout performance in 2018 so far occurred at the Qatar Open where she finished runner-up to Petra Kvitova.
“I’m still trying to find my rhythm. I had a few good matches, a few others that didn’t go my way, but I’m excited because the year is so long. It will turn around.” Muguruza told wtatennis.com.
Next up for Muguruza is the Miami Open. The Spaniard has failed to reach the quarter-final of the event in her six previous attempts. Last year she retired in her fourth round match against Caroline Wozniacki due to a heat-related illness. She will be seeking redemption at Crandon Park following her recent disappointment at Indian Wells. Muguruza crashed out of her opening match to American qualifier Sachia Vickery.
“A tournament that doesn’t go your way, for me, is a key to try and forget it, try to work hard and at least get ready for the next one.” She explained.
It will be a far from simple start to her campaign in Miami. Muguruza’s first test will be against 16-year-old wild card Amanda Anisimova, who has recently scored wins over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Kvitova. At 130th in the world, the current US Open junior champion is the youngest player in the top 150.
“I think she played, very, very good. She’s young and she’s excited.” Muguruza said about her upcoming opponent.
“It’s great to see young faces (on the tour) and of course people that are playing good.”
Muguruza, who is seeded third in the draw, will play Anisimova on Thursday.
Muguruza’s start to 2018
Brisbane – Retires in round 2 due to excessive cramping
Sydney – Withdraws from her quarter-final match due to an abductor injury
Australian Open – Knocked out in the second round by Su-Wei Hsieh
Qatar – Reaches her first final of the year, but was denied the title by Petra Kvitova
Doha – Goes out in the semifinals to Daria Kasatkina
Indian Wells – Loses opening match in three sets to Sachia Vickery
