Kerber wins first grass-court title in Birmingham
June 21, 2015
Angelique Kerber sealed her first grass-court title on Sunday, beating Karolina Pliskova 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) in Birmingham. The German's win was her sixth career title and sets her up well for Wimbledon, which starts in a week's time.
The 27-year-old came from a set and a break of serve down in the second set, and then from 5-6 down in the decider to win an unpredictable match.
"Being able to win this will give me great confidence in my preparation (for Wimbledon). It was an amazing match, and for a final it was perfect," Kerber said afterwards. "It sounds good to have my name on the trophy next to Billy-Jean King and Martina Navratilova, and I am proud of what I have achieved this week.
Pliskova was far from disappointed after the defeat, pleased with her performance and respectful of Kerber's fightback. "I had the feeling Angelique was everywhere, and every lefty is tough on grass. She moves so well and plays flat shots which is important on this surface," said the 23-year-old afterwards.
Kerber has now won three tournaments this year - Birmingham, Charleston and Stuttgart - which means she has already delivered her most successful season to date. Even with Wimbledon around the corner, Kerber was still in the mood to celebrate: "I will enjoy today and drink a bit of champagne, and what's more I'll eat a lot of pizza."
jh/rc (dpa, AFP)