Stephens hails opening victory, while top seed Kerber stunned

A CALM Sloane Stephens picked her shots to perfection to overcome Japan’s Naomi Osaka in a battle between the last two US Open champions at the WTA Finals, before top seed Angelique Kerber was upset by Kiki Bertens.

Stephens and Osaka are making their debuts at the season-ending event, but it was the American who opened Red Group action with a 7-5 4-6 6-1 win built on the foundations of solid defence from the baseline and a devastating forehand when she attacked.

“I just competed really well and never gave up,” said Stephens.

“I knew I would have to play some really good tennis to beat her.

“I stayed tough and tried to stay as positive as I could and took my opportunities when they presented themselves.”

In the group’s second match, German top seed Kerber suffered a shock 1-6 6-3 6-4 defeat by Bertens, who confirmed her reputation as a conqueror of leading players.

The Dutchwoman only made it to Singapore when Romanian World No.1 Simona Halep withdrew through injury, but she showed incredible grit and tenacity after falling a set and 2-0 down to fight back for her 11th win over a top-10 player this season.

The eight-player event continues today with White Group matches pitting Caroline Wozniacki against Petra Kvitova and Elina Svitolina against Karolina Pliskova.