Kenin Claims First WTA Title, Defeats Schmiedlova In Hobart Final

Sofia Kenin took home her first career title Saturday in Hobart, beating Anna Karolina Schmiedlova in straight sets 6-3, 6-0.

“I’m so happy to have gotten this title,” the 20-year-old Kenin said.”It was my first year and I’m looking forward to coming back here for many more years to come.”

Schmiedlova may have been feeling a big of fatigue after two previous three setters leading up to the final.

“It was really unexpected, and I’m extremely happy that I could be in the final,” Schmiedlova said. “While today didn’t go as I hoped it would go, Sofia played really well.

“I had a few chances especially in the beginning of the first set, but she played better today and I hope to play many more finals with her.”

Kenin didn’t drop a set all week and that includes a win over top seed Carolina Garcia. The Florida native will see her ranking rise from No. 56 to No. 37. She opens play in Melbourne against qualifier Veronika Kudermetova.