Halep sails, Kvitova halted

Indian Wells (United States), March 12: Simona Halep took pride in rallying past 19-year-old Caroline Dolehide at Indian Wells, while Petra Kvitova’s remarkable win streak skidded to a halt against another US teen.

World No. 1 Halep came from behind to beat Dolehide 1-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 in the third round of the WTA hardcourt tournament, while two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova had her 14-match winning streak snapped as she lost 2-6, 4-6 to 149thranked Amanda Anisimova on Sunday.

The 26-year-old Halep is trying to repeat her success in the California desert in 2015 when she lifted the trophy.

The Romanian improved to 16-1 on the season and said her confidence is what keeps her going in tight matches.

Halep hit two aces had no double faults, and broke Dolehide’s serve five times in the two hour, five minute match.

Halep said she likes use the word “proud” and is trying to maintain a positive attitude.

Halep booked a round-of 16 clash with China’s Wang Qiang, who defeated 14th seed Kristina Mladenovic, of France, 6-1, 6-2.

With her win Sunday over Dolehide, Halep can keep her top ranking unless Wozniacki wins the title.

Streak stopped

Elsewhere, Kvitova had been playing some of the best tennis of her career so it wasn’t the kind of third round statement the ninth seed was looking for as she lost in straight sets to the youngest player in the draw. The 14 straight wins tied her previous career best which she set in 2011-2012. Kvitova came into Indian Wells having won the last two events she played in.