Mumbai: Angelique Kerber won the 2016 US Open beating Karolina Pliskova 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 in the women’s singles finals on Saturday winning her second Grand Slam title of the year.
Kerber added another feather to her winning hat by winning the US Open after the Australian Open title she claimed in January earlier this year and ultimately rising to world number one spot after defeating the 10th-seeded Czech. She also became the first German to win the US Open since Steffi Graf in 1996, beginning her year ranked 10th in the world.
“Amazing to win a second Grand Slam in one year. It’s the best year of my career.” She added, “It all started for me here in New York five years ago when I reached the semi-finals and now I am here with the trophy. It’s incredible.”
Kerber capitalised on Pliskova’s errors which were evident by a couple of misses at the net. The quick advantage gave Kerber plenty of breathing room. “To be number one and win Grand Slam titles was always my dream ever since I was a little girl. It means so much.” Kerber said.
Pliskova, on the other hand, who toppled Serena Williams in the semifinals became only the fourth player to beat both the William sisters. However, she was unable to maintain every advantage that she got in the final game and gave too many errors which in turn proved fruitful for Kerber. “In the second set, I found some power and took it to a third set. I am still happy with the way I played the last three weeks. Hopefully there will be many more finals to come.”
Although she gained the first break of the third for a 2-1 lead, Pliskova couldn’t keep the game with her. Two errors off the ground gave a break back to Kerber in the sixth. “I found out I can play against the best players in the world on the big courts. Angie proved she is the number one, it was an honour to play her.”