Top seed Elina Svitolina has claimed her first title since the 2018 WTA Finals after prevailing in a three-hour thriller at the Monterrey Open in Mexico.
The two-time grand slam semi-finalist battled to a 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, over Czech Republic’s Marie Bouzkova, who was playing in her first WTA final at the age of 21. Svitolina was firmly tested from the onset after dropping serve in a marathon opening game that featured seven deuces. Nevertheless, in a match of fine margins the Ukranian managed to hold her nerve to edge out Bouzkova. Breaking her rival five times during the match and winning 67% of her first service points.
“It was an amazing battle,” Svitolina said during the trophy presentation. “Marie was fighting great, and I think it was a very high-level match. We’ve both been playing good, we were fighting, and there were no easy games. I think the people really pushed us to play our best, and it was amazing to get the support from the Mexican people.”
Closing in on her latest title in Mexico, Svitolina had to overcome a late blip to secure the trophy. Serving for the title at 5-3, she dropped serve following another impressive fightback from Bouzkova. However, she sealed the win in the following game after breaking her rival once more.
“It feels amazing,” the new Monterrey champion said. “It’s another step towards my goals, and I’m moving in the right direction. I’m happy that it’s going the right way.”
Prior to this week, the 25-year-old had only managed to win back-to-back matches in two out of her last five tournaments played. In Mexico she dropped only one set in five matches played, which was against Bouzkova. In the semi-finals she dropped only one game against Arantxa Rus.
Svitolina’s latest triumph has elevated her two spots up the rankings to return back in the world’s top five. Meanwhile, Boulkova has risen 10 places to a career high of 47th in the world.
Monterrey is Svitolina’s 14th WTA title in her career and first in South America. 10 of those titles have been won on a hard court.
