Halep tames Pliskova to win Hua Hin exhibition
Hua Hin - World No 1 Simona Halep got off to a great preparation for the new season as she tamed No 4 Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic 6-2 6-3 to win the Intercontinental World Tennis Thailand Championship on Sunday at the True Arena Hua Hin.
The 26-year-old Romanian was the more energetic and solid between the two payers, chasing down all shots with enthusiasm while Pliskova was overwhelmed with unforced errors and moved a step slower.
Pliskova who finished runner-up in the Pattaya Open three years ago has had a sore throat since on Saturday. She just arrived Thailand on Friday’s afternoon.
In the third place play-off, Johanna Konta of Great Britian beat Jelena Ostapenko 6-2 6-3.
Pliskova said: “I had good two matches. It was tough to beat her today. But I think I played solid since yesterday.”
Halep who will stay in Hua Hin for a few days before flying to China to play a WTA event said: “
“I’m happy I could win two matches. Someone told me if you win here you will win the Australian Open. If I don’t win, it’s not my fault OK?”
Simona Halep is stunned by what is supposed to be her abstract drawing as Karolina Pliskova is laughing during the trophy presentation.