Kvitova survives Pegula comeback, stuns American in spectacular fashion to reach indian Wells quarterfinals

Former World No.2 was pushed to the limit in her BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells round of 16 match against third seed Jessica Pegula on Tuesday, but prevailed after a tight three-set encounter.

The two-time Wimbledon champion displayed some excellent form to record a 6-2 3-6 7-6(11) victory over the World No.3, as Kvitova rolled back the years in a splendid performance on Court 1. The Czech star was dominant from the start, dictating play with impressive forehand placement as she raced through the opening set.

Nonetheless, Pegula rediscovered her form in the second set, obtaining the crucial break behind a poor service performance from Kvitova. This led to a decider, where Pegula served for the match twice, at 5-4 and again at 6-5. However, Kvitova's championship pedigree was on display as the 33-year old broke back each time to force a tiebreak.

Although Pegula obtained a mini-break to lead 4-2, Kvitova rallied back to level the score at 4-4. With a spot in the quarterfinal at stake, it was who Kvitova held her nerve to win the match and advance after two hours and 14 minutes.