Czech No.1 Karolina Pliskova is a win away from the biggest title of her career at the Miami Open after scoring a straight sets win over Simona Halep. An outcome that has also breathed a sigh of relief for world No.1 Naomi Osaka.
Pliskova require just under 80 minutes to defeat Halep 7-5, 6-1, during a match that was interrupted by rain delays. The encounter wasn’t entirely straightforward for the world No.7, who dropped serve twice during the opening set. Nevertheless, as the match progressed Pliskova proved to be the more consistent of the two. Winning five games in a row during set number two on route to the victory. In total, Pliskova produced 23 winners to 16 unforced errors.
“I think I played great the second set. Of course I think she (Halep) could maybe do a little bit better.” She said. “Maybe she was of course frustrated about the first set where it didn’t really go her way. I played some good shots, and it turned after the break. But, yeah, that’s how it is, and I’m happy with my level.”
The 27-year-old is guided on the tour by two former pros who have both enjoyed success during their careers. Conchita Martinez is the 1994 Wimbledon Champion and Renee Stubbs is a three-time grand slam champion in the doubles. Under their influence, Pliskova has enjoyed a strong start to 2019. Miami is the fourth consecutive tournament where she has reached the quarter-finals or better.
“Of course the confidence, it helps so much,” said Pliskova. “You know, when you win a couple matches, then you just see the ball, you know, without even practicing or without even thinking about it. So I think it all is because of the matches.”
Pliskova’s latest triumph means that two-time grand slam champion Osaka will retain her No.1 position next week. A title that could have been snatched by Halep if she progressed to the final in Miami. As for Pliskova, she could rise to as high as No.2 if she wins the title on Saturday.
Standing in the way of her first ever Premier Mandatory title will be Ash Barty. The 22-year-old Australian has secured her debut in the world’s top 10 next week following her run in Miami. On Thursday she dropped only six games during her 6-3, 6-3, win over Anett Kontaveit. Becoming the first player from her country – man or woman – to reach the final of the tournament.
“We have had a few really good matches in the past.” Barty said of facing Pliskova. “I think it’s split pretty evenly, actually. I played her most recently in the US Open in another big match. There wasn’t much in that either. I think either way I get to go out there and try and play my brand of tennis, which is probably the most important thing for either matchup.”
The women’s final will take place on Saturday. At stake will be 1000 ranking points for the winner, as well as $1,354,010 in prize money.
