Qualifier Pironkova Upsets Kvitova for Shot at Sydney Title
Bulgarian qualifier Tsvetana Pironkova upset the second-seeded Petra Kvitova on Thursday, 6-4, 6-3 to earn a spot in the finals of the Apia International Sydney. In the finals, Pironkova will meet the fifth-seeded German Angelique Kerber, a 6-4, 6-2 semifinals victor over American Madison Keys.
“I feel incredibly happy right now," said Pironkova post-match. "In the same time, I’m trying to stay grounded and focused for the next match, which is obviously the most important match of the week."
From 4-4 in the first set, Pironkova won six of the next seven games to take a 6-4, 4-1 lead. Kvitova led a mini rally, but serving at 4-3, 15-40, Pironkova ran off eight straight points to clinch the win. Pironkova becomes the first ever qualifier to advance to the Sydney finals.
A Sydney semifinalist last year, Kerber has yet to drop a set this.
“I’m very happy about the way I played, and second tournament and I’m in the final first time this year,” said Kerber. “I think I had great matches, and also before Melbourne I’m feeling good. I’m feeling good here in Sydney. I just enjoy my tennis."
