Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova remains the queen of the Monterrey Open after defeating top seed Angelique Kerber 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, in the final to win her fourth title at the tournament.
The world No.16 managed to overcome a second set resurgence by Kerber with the help of 49 winners, 35 more than the world No.1. Heading into the final set, Pavlyuchenkova won five consecutive games on route to securing the ninth WTA title of her career.
“I’m really overwhelmed and don’t think I realized that I just won my fourth Monterrey trophy,” she said following her win. “Some people just have four trophies in total, and I have four here! It’s very special and it’s a special place in my heart; it’s where I won my first title and since won three more.
“But a trophy is a trophy; I’m so happy to hold it.”
Sunday’s win is also a milestone in Pavlychenkova’s career with it being her first victory over a current world No.1 player. Previously, she has claimed 25 wins over top-10 players since 2009, but none of those have been against players either ranked first or second in the world.
“Playing the final against the No.1 player in the world is already very special, because everyone wants to compete against the No.1. You don’t get so many chances to do it, so it was one opportunity for me today. Beating here feels amazing, but I’m just enjoying the moment right now.”
Pavlyuchenkova now has a 16-7 win-loss record this season. Earlier in their year she achieved her best ever result at the Australian Open by reaching the quarter-finals. Then in March she also reached the last eight at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.
Kerber’s wait continues
Suffering a loss in the final, Kerber is still yet to win a title this season after a roller coaster season. Participating in eight events so far this season, Monterrey is the first tournament where she has reached the final.
“I have had a great time so far, it’s my third time here. I really enjoy it.” An upbeat Kerber said about playing in Monterrey.
“Thank-you to my coach, we had a great week and thank-you for supporting me. It always great to have you by my side.” She later added.
Despite the positive thinking by Kerber, she is set to lose her number one ranking in the week commencing April 24th when the points from the 2016 Stuttgart Open drops off. Serena Williams will once again rise back to the top.
Kerber can reclaim the top spot if she produces a strong run at this year’s Stuttgart Open. The blockbuster event is set to feature eight out of the world’s top-10 players.
