Sofia Kenin secured a hard-fought victory over Petra Kvitova, winning 6-4, 7-5, and eliminating the former Miami Open champion. It was arguably the match of Tuesday, 18th, with two former Grand Slam champions facing off in the first round, where the differences between them were minimal, and both had moments of doubt on their service games.
The 2023 Miami Open champion, Petra Kvitova, had been absent in 2024 after taking a break from her career due to maternity leave. With a ranking of No. 1126, she received a wildcard to compete in the draw. It was a tough first-round draw against the 2020 Australian Open champion, which ended with Kvitova's early exit.
First Set
Kvitova started strong, breaking early to gain the advantage. Despite limited competition rhythm in 2024, after two first-round defeats at the ATX Open and Indian Wells, the 2023 Miami Open champion was playing at a good level.
Kenin, however, quickly regained the break, winning three consecutive games to take a 3-2 lead. The match was filled with tension, with both players exchanging breaks to reach 4-4. Kenin held her serve before the set's conclusion and took advantage of a crucial opportunity in the 10th game, breaking Kvitova at the right moment to take the set 6-4.
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Kvitova’s service was a rollercoaster, with 6 aces and 6 double faults. She won 67% of points on her first serve but only 17% on the second. On the other hand, Kenin’s first serve was one of her strong points, winning 93% of points on it. She also capitalized on 3/4 break point opportunities during the set.
Second Set
Kvitova continued to rely on her serve and hoped for errors from Kenin when returning. The second set saw both players maintaining solid service games, with neither being able to generate a break point opportunity until 4-4. Up until that point, neither had come close to breaking the other's serve.
The Czech reduced her issues with double faults and hit 6 aces throughout the set. When Kenin was leading 5-4, Kvitova was under pressure to hold serve and stay in the match. That’s when they played the most contested game of the match, with the two-time Grand Slam champion saving a match point to stay in the match. Kvitova won the game to level the set at 5-5, keeping her hopes alive.
Kenin held her serve without too many problems, while once again, Kvitova had the responsibility to hold hers. However, this time, the errors cost her. The 35-year-old Czech player couldn't handle the pressure, conceding a couple of match points to the American, who took advantage of the opportunity to claim the victory 6-4, 7-5, eliminating the Czech. Kenin secures a tough challenge against World No. 3 Coco Gauff in the second round.
Match Statistics Kvitova vs. Kenin
| Kvitova | VS | Kenin |
|---|---|---|
| Service | ||
| 13 | Aces | 1 |
| 7 | Double Faults | 1 |
| 65% (43/66) | 1st Service Percentage | 88% (51/58) |
| 72% (31/43) | 1st Service Points Won | 71% (36/51) |
| 30% (7/23) | 2nd Service Points Won | 57% (4/7) |
| 40% (2/5) | Break Points Saved | 0% (0/2) |
| 70% (7/10) | Service Games | 82% (9/11) |
| Return | ||
| 29% (15/51) | 1st Return Points Won | 28% (12/43) |
| 43% (3/7) | 2nd Return Points Won | 70% (16/23) |
| - | Break Points Saved | - |
| Other | ||
| 1h 21m | Match Duration | 1h 21m |
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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