BNP Paribas Open, Indian Wells
[7] Kiki Bertens (NED) vs. [20] Garbine Muguruza (ESP)
Bertens had the advantages of losing only once in five meetings to Muguruza and riding high on confidence as a top ten player. However, Muguruza was once ranked number one and is a two-time major champion, something that can never be taken away from her and two factors that are a testament to the quality of tennis she can produce. While the Spaniard has been struggling to find her top form, she can remember what she has accomplished to motivate her during difficult matches.
STRUGGLING WITH HER FORM
Muguruza served for the first set twice, and twice Bertens capitalized on the shaky confidence of her opponent to break back and then broke again to win the first set. After serving for a set and failing to do so twice, a player may completely unravel; however, Muguruza dug deep and came back focused in set two. She minimized her errors and stayed in the rallies longer forcing Bertens to go for her shots from uncomfortable positions, which generated more errors. Muguruza showcased some of that top form in set two and won it in dominant form 6-1.
A THIRD SET TO DECIDE THE WINNER
Bertens took the early lead in the third set; however, she could not keep the lead. In the sixth game, Muguruza broke back to even the set. The rallies were grueling and Bertens went for more on her shots, making more errors than her opponent. At 4-5 down, Bertens served to stay in the match; however, the Spaniard would not be denied this victory. Match point was a long drawn out battle (a twenty-six shot rally) that left both players gasping for air. An attempted dropshot error from her opponent and Muguruza won5-7, 6-1, 6-4.
MUGURUZA FIGHTING TO REGAIN HER FORM
This was a battle to the end and perhaps it meant more to the Spaniard than her opponent. In 2015, the Spaniard was ranked number three; two years later, she was the number one ranked female player on the WTA Tour; and now two years later, she is outside the top ten. Once you reach the top, you never forget what that feels like and you want to get back to the top. Despite her struggles, the talent is still there, and Muguruza wants to get back to that level.
MAIN IMAGE: Zimbio.com (Mark Kolbe/Getty Images AsiaPac: Garbine Muguruza)
