Third time title treat for Davis
GETTY IMAGES SUPERSTAR deflections and injury withdrawals let the enthusiasm out of the ASB Classic bubble.
As Serena, Venus Williams and Caroline Wozniacki all departed before the semifinals, the women’s tournament became a fizzer.
Except, that is, for Lauren Davis. The diminutive American, ranked 61 in the world, is far from a big name. But no-one can suggest she did not earn her maiden WTA title.
As she raised her hands aloft and thanked the crowd, her elation was there for all to see.
Davis, on her fifth visit to Auckland, knocked out four seeds; Croatian teenager Ana Konjuh the last in the final, which she claimed in dominant style, 6-3 6-1 in 71 minutes yesterday.
It’s been some journey for Davis. Last year in Auckland the 23-year-old American played New Zealand teenager Jade Lewis in qualifying on the inside back court. This year she lifted the trophy.
‘‘It is definitely surreal,’’ Davis said. ‘‘I have been waiting for this moment for quite a few years. I had two finals last year and it was definitely discouraging and frustrating but I guess third time is a charm.
‘‘My goal was just to have fun, play my game and execute my shots. Whatever the outcome, it is what it is, so I’m happy.’’
Two years on from her semifinal loss to Venus Williams here, Davis said earlier this week she had matured since then and found greater balance off the court, allowing her to relax and enjoy her game more.
Clearly, that mantra has worked.
The wind that Serena berated mostly subsided, allowing the Saturday afternoon sun to bake centre court and provide picture perfect conditions. There can be no excuses from Konjuh.
In a battle of the orange skirts, Konjuh struggled with early nerves while Davis settled into her work from the outset.
While Konjuh’s head dropped as the match wore on, the methodical Davis grew in confidence. As she did all week, she scampered for everything. And she kept her composure.
From the moment Davis stole a jump on Konjuh by breaking her in the sixth game she never looked like being hauled in.
In many ways the final was a deflating affair for Konjuh, 19, a player the ASB Classic signed to a three-year deal four seasons ago. Unforced errors were all too frequent, and her aggressive approach often saw her push for winners that were out of reach.