The brother of former Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki has insisted that there are positives to be drawn from her early exit from the BNP Paribas Open on Saturday.
Wozniacki, who was seeded 13th in the tournament, crashed out in three sets to Russia’s Ekaterina Alexandrova. Hitting just 13 winners compared to her opponents tally of 44 during her 7-5, 2-6, 7-5, loss. Making it only the third time in her career that she has failed to progress beyond the second round at Indian Wells.
“It feels amazing, I can’t describe it,” wtatennis.com quoted Alexandrova as saying afterwards. “I played her two times before, and two times, it was not the best play. But now, I think maybe I’m just grateful for everything, and the hard work that I did finally paid off, and I’m just happy.”
Heading into Indian Wells, Wozniacki’s preparation has been hampered by illness. Withdrawing from tournaments in Doha and Dubai due to a virus. Last year the Dane discovered that she has rheumatoid arthritis. A long-term condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. Although her recent bout of illness has not been directly linked to the condition.
Addressing Wozniacki’s current health, brother Patrik believes there are positives from her latest match on the tour. Speaking to Danish network TV2Sport, he confirmed that the former world No.1 is currently not suffering from any problems linked to her arthritis.
“I have no doubt the Caroline’s on the right path. She had to start somewhere, and it was here. Unfortunately, it was a loss, but she can take a few things with her.” He said.
“She’s been practising well lately, and she’s no longer sick. She’s been put through the wringer. She says she’s moving well and doesn’t feel any rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, which she also has. It sounds OK.”
The 28-year-old had only a week of training prior to Indian Wells. Including a practice match against Angelique Kerber, who defeated Yania Putintseva 6-0, 6-2, in her second round match.
“The most important thing was that she could still run and work from the baseline. She’s still lacking a few pro cent in her game, and doesn’t feel comfortable yet. I think it looks pretty good.” Said Patrik.
“Now it’s back to the practice court, play some practice matches and just look forward to Miami.”
Since the start of 2019, Wozniacki has only been able to play in two tournaments. Reaching the second round of the ASB Classic in Auckland, followed by the third round at the Australian Open.
Indian Wells is the first tournament where Wozniacki has lost her opening match since the Pan Pacific Open in September.
