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Post by Admin on Apr 12, 2021 5:03:52 GMT
Veronika Kudermetova of Russia won her first WTA title, coming up strong on the big points to beat Danka Kovinic 6-4, 6-2 at the Volvo Car Open on Sunday.
Kudermetova, 23, did not drop a set in six matches on the way to the championship at the season's first clay-court tournament -- a feat last accomplished here by Serena Williams in 2012.
Kovinic, also seeking her first title, sailed a forehand long on match point, making the fifth first-time winner this season on the WTA.
"I really enjoyed the play here," Kudermetova said to the few dozen people watching as she held the championship trophy up high.
The tournament was closed to the general public because of the coronavirus pandemic. It was canceled last year.
Matches were also shuffled to a secondary court with the main stadium undergoing a $50 million renovation.
None of that mattered to Kudermetova, who'll cherish this win as if she played in a full house.
"Of course, it means a lot," Kudermetova said. "I'm really happy and proud of myself at my first title."
Kudermetova didn't feel confident when the week began. Her only other appearance in Charleston was first-round loss in 2019 and she wasn't sure how she'd perform on the slower surface.
On Saturday night, Kudermetova had trouble calming her nerves at the prospect of her first tournament crown.
When she stepped on the court, though, she channeled her performances of the past week to take control against Kovinic.
"It's an amazing week for me," she said. "I played really well. I think I deserved this trophy."
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Post by Admin on Apr 14, 2021 23:24:13 GMT
Ajla Tomljanovic vs. Clara Tauson | 2021 Charleston 250 Round 2 | WTA Match Highlights
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Post by Admin on Apr 15, 2021 5:58:01 GMT
Linda Fruhvirtova vs. Alize Cornet | 2021 Charleston 250 Round 1 | WTA Match Highlights
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Post by Admin on Apr 18, 2021 3:30:57 GMT
Shelby Rogers vs. Danka Kovinic | 2021 Charleston 250 Quarterfinal | WTA Match Highlights
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Post by Admin on Apr 18, 2021 22:05:46 GMT
Ons Jabeur vs. Astra Sharma | 2021 Charleston 250 Final | WTA Match Highlights
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