New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
Kvitova back in the swing of things
Less than three months into her tour return at the Connecticut Open last year, Petra Kvitova’s overriding emotions were of surprise and gratitude just to be back doing what she truly loved.
It was much less about winning titles than simply stepping back on court, able to hold her racket again, and completing matches.
Back up to No. 5 in the world after a season that has already reaped five trophies, however, that mindset has altered.
While forever grateful to be back competing after surviving an attack at home in the Czech Republic in December 2016, the three-time Connecticut Open champion could afford to readjust her on-court expectations.
“It’s shifted definitely,” the 28-year-old said ahead of her first-round showdown with 2016 champion Agnieszka Radwanska, a match she would win 6-1, 7-6 (7-3). “Actually I think the mindset is how it is with any athlete. Anytime you reach something you just want more and that’s just how I am as well.
“I’m probably never satisfied so I’m still trying to improve, not only in my results, it comes with your game and your performance.
“My physical side as well; I’m trying to improve and the results are coming. It’s great to have a year, six titles since I’ve come back, five this year. I’m a bit tired from it but overall it’s great.”
A grueling off-season to work on her fitness had paid dividends. The title haul was evidence enough, even if the Czech admitted to frustration at her Grand Slam results in 2018.
After a three-set defeat to Venus Williams in the US Open quarterfinals last year, however, there was reason to believe she could close out that 2018 record at the majors on a high note when she returned to Flushing Meadows next week.
Only last week, she won a highquality shoot-out against Serena Williams in the first round in Cincinnati.
“It’s always great to share a court with her,” Kvitova said. “I know she’s not at her highest level but we still showed great tennis and it’s been a great match that gives me a lot of confidence coming into this week and the US Open as well. It’s great to beat her for sure.”
It took eventual champion Kiki Bertens to end Kvitova’s run in the semifinals, a second defeat to the Dutchwoman in as many events.
Beyond her US Open quarterfinal and China Open semifinal points, Kvitova has no points to defend for the remainder of the season. It sets her up for one of her strongest year-end rankings.
“When I had the injury I could only imagine for a few times that I am going to play tennis any more,” she said. “For me just being back on the tennis court was already a victory and I didn’t really think how I’m going to play.
“Of course I wanted to be on the higher level and competing with the best but not having five titles already and being in the top 10 in a year, so that’s kind of a dream for me, definitely. I can’t be more happy than I am.”
That mindset will shift further should Kvitova surpass her own expectations before the season’s out.
“When I had the injury I could only imagine for a few times that I am going to play tennis any more. For me just being back on the tennis court was already a victory and I didn’t really think how I’m going to play.”
— Petra Kvitova