Pliskova Finds Keys To Defending Brisbane Title

Karolina Pliskova won her third Brisbane title, successfully defending her 2018 crown over Madison Keys 6-4, 4-6, 7-5.

The 16th title of Pliskova’s career was her first title defense.

“I think it’s always difficult to defend because, to be in a great shape at that moment where you just won last year, a lot of things need to happen,” the Czech said. “I don’t think it was perfect tournament, maybe last year I played here and there a little better, but maybe I was fighting more this time and just somehow find a way to win the matches, which is important.

“I beat only good top players, so there was nobody easy this time, maybe compared to last year, I think the draw was a little bit different. So, of course especially, in the beginning of the year I think it’s no better start.”

After dropping the first, Keys took the last four games of the second to push a third. Pliskova gained the first break but failed to serve it out, however did so on her next chance.

“I think I had a few opportunities to break earlier in the first and second set and didn’t convert,” Keys said. “She served really well both times. And then in the third set, I think there were just a few points here or there that I maybe didn’t play the point perfectly, but, all in all, it was a really close match.”

Playing in her 10th career final, Keys was seeking a 6th title. Keys turns 25 next month.

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