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[CR10] Andrea Petkovic (GER) vs. [CR65] Kirsten Flipkens (BEL)

In an era where everything is publicized, more and more players are advertising their struggles with confidence.  Is it really wise for them to do so or does public acknowledgement further adversely affect their game? When other players know you are struggling, it increases their confidence, inspiring them to believe that this is their opportunity to defeat you.  When they believe, they elevate their game and may in fact beat you.

It was not the best performance from either player as both have been struggling to find their top form. The winner would be the one who marshalled enough belief to control the nerves and hold serve. This was my first time seeing Flipkens play and it became apparent why she has only won one title on tour. Although she has a fairly decent serve, she lacks consistency, a result of her uncertainty. Additionally, she has no weapon to end points or hurt her opponents off the ground. When she is confident she can force her opponents into making unforced errors; especially if the opponent is also off their game.  That was the case today; however, Petkovic found a way to win 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-2, although it was by no means impressive.