Emotional Kvitova wins ‘twice’ on French Open return

PARIS: Petra Kvitova said Sunday’s first-round victory at the French Open felt like winning twice as the Czech star made an emotional return from a harrowing knife attack at her home in December.

The two-time Wimbledon champion swept aside American Julia Boserup in her first match since suffering career-threatening injuries to her left playing hand when she tackled an intruder at her home in the eastern Czech town of Prostejov.

“I came here as a winner already,” said Kvitova, who returned to action at Roland Garros after almost six months out.

“When we were thinking about playing here I told my coaches I wanted to come and win my first match. That was a dream. The motivation I had today was amazing -- and I really just didn’t want to lose.

“This match was special to me. I won for the second time, if I can say that.” Kvitova was left fighting to save her career after the attack, admitting earlier in the week that her hand was “still not 100%”.

However, the 15th seed won the opening point of the match with a sweeping cross-court forehand to set the tone for a convincing victory in just 74 minutes over world number 86 Boserup.

“The first point was amazing. I surprised myself with the forehand winner straightaway. It felt weird but great, as well.

“It wasn’t really about the game. I mean, I had big motivation, and I know that I was going to do everything I can even if I should just run from side to side to win it. The 27-year-old received a warm welcome on Phillipe Chatrier court. She initially kept her emotions in check before finally shedding a few tears after sealing her place in round two.

“My team was there. My family was there. Everyone who helped me through the difficult time. So it was a real pleasure to play in front of them and play how I played,” said Kvitova,

I played well after six months off. I’m happy with the game, of course, but I mean, it wasn’t really about the game today.

PETRA KVITOVA , After the victory