Karolina Pliskova of Czech Republic celebrates after defeating Garbine Muguruza of Spain at Singapore WTA Finals Round Robin Singles on October 24, 2016. [Photo/Agencies] |
The other match between No 4 seed Karolina Pliskova and Roland Garros champion Garbiñe Muguruza was also a tight one.
Pliskova, who made her debut on Monday, crushed the Spanish in the first set, but competition in second set got much fierce. Muguruza roared back, and fired a warning shot at her opponent.
Muguruza threw in some more variety in the last set and a half, consolidating the break. However, Pliskova stopped the run of games to the Spaniard following the advice of "make time for yourself" from her coach.
The Czech finally saved match point to defeat Muguruza 6-2, 6-7(4), 7-5 to move to 1-0 in the White Group. Pliskova told the press that it was really tough for her.
"I was just somehow trying to hold close to her and waiting for my chance, and I got few chances. Really wasn't easy," said Pliskova, "all the games are pretty close in the third set...so really tough match today and really happy to be through."
While Muguruza responded that nothing really happened at the press conference after the match. She thought both Pliskova and her were playing good.
"I was trying to improve during the match more and more, so I did it. Obviously I had my opportunities at the match point; didn't play the best I think on that point. I think I could have played better," the Spaniard added.