Petra Kvitova edged out world number one Ash Barty 6-4 2-6 6-4 to reach the Doha final, where she will face Aryna Sabalenka.
In one of the most fiercely contested rivalries on the WTA tour right now, Petra Kvitova edged out the world number one in three sets to book her place in Saturday’s final.
Three breaks of serve occurred to start the match as Kvitova managed to gain the early advantage with some big-hitting and tight angles.
Although Barty had her chances to break in the eighth game, the Czech Republican managed to hold on and claim the opening set.
However the world number one struck back in the second set as she raised her level as she caused Kvitova problems with her slices.
Two breaks of serve in the fourth and eight games secured the second set as she levelled the match at one set all.
Both players started the deciding set by cruising to service holds as Barty was looking for a fifth consecutive victory over the world number 11.
After exchanging breaks of serve in the middle of the set, Kvitova took control as she broke the Australian for a fourth time for the match as she gained a 4-3 advantage.
Despite some tremendous pressure from Barty, the Czech Republican held on to seal a 1 hour and 52 minute win to reach her second Doha final.
An inspired performance from Kvitova means she will go for her 28th career title tomorrow when she faces Aryna Sabalenka in tomorrow’s final.
The Belarusian reached the final by beating Svetlana Kuznetsova in straight sets in the other semi-final. Tomorrow’s final will take place at 6pm local time.
