ASB Classic
Ana’s 2016 season got underway at Auckland’s ASB Classic in New-Zealand, but started somewhat with a false note as the 2014 champion lost 7-5, 6-4 in the opening round against world No. 122 Naomi Broady from Great-Britain.
Broady had passed three rounds of qualifying before reaching the main draw and the Brit clearly felt better in her element on court, hammering not less than 14 aces during the contest. However, Ana definitely enforced some chances in the opening set.
Despite facing one of the best-serving competitors on the tour, Ana managed to break Broady two times. At 5-4 in set one, the former world No. 1 even had the opportunity to serve it out, but unfortunately for Ana, she was unable to take advantage of the situation. Broadly reeled off three straight games and wrapped up with that the opening set to stun Ana.
There was no more stopping Broady after that. The Brit remained utterly dominant on serve and sealed her first ever top-20 victory after one hour and 22 minutes.
“I felt Naomi was using the angles really well and it was hard to read her serve, there were no patterns. It was very tough, I don’t remember the last time I was aced that many times.”
The 28-year-old also entered the doubles competition in Auckland, teaming-up with Belgium’s Kirsten Flipkens. The pair realized a major upset as they beat the top-seeded team in the opening round, but then were forced to pull out as Ana suffered from dizziness and headaches.
“I love being in Auckland for the ASB Classic and I really want to come back in 2017 and give the title another go.”
Ana revealed on her Twitter account that she has accepted a wildcard to enter Apia International Sydney in order to have some more matches under her belt prior to the Australian Open, the year’s first Grand Slam tournament which will kick-off in two weeks.
“Change of plans! Hello #Sydney! I will be playing the @SydneyTennis as their Wild Card!”
Results
R1: Ana vs. N. Broady (WTA-122) 5-7, 4-6
R1 doubles: Ana/K. Flipkens vs. A. Hlavackova/L. Hradecka 4-6, 6-4, 10-3
R2 doubles: Ana/K. Flipkens vs. A. Mestach/E. Mertens walkover
