Caroline Wozniacki defeated Petra Kvitova in the second round of the US Open by 7-5, 7-6(5) and sets up a match with Jennifer Brady.
In the 15th encounter between Kvitova and Wozniacki, the players entered with a H2H record of 8-6 in favor of the Czech. Their last meeting came almost five years prior at the 2018 WTA Finals, with the Dane emerging victorious.
Kvitova advanced to the second round by defeating Cristina Bucsa 6-1, 7-6(5) in the opening round. On the other hand, the former world No. 1 once again demonstrated her good form by overcoming young Russian Tatiana Prozorova with a score of 6-3, 6-2.
In a lengthy and intense first set lasting one hour and 3 minutes, Kvitova struck first by converting her third break point opportunity in the opening game. Wozniacki reacted swiftly, capitalizing on her third break chance in the following game to level the match.
The Czech gained a 4-2 advantage, but Wozniacki rallied to win five of the next six games, ultimately taking the set 7-5 on her second set point.
Wozniacki took the initiative in the second set, reducing her unforced errors and being the first to secure a break in the sixth game. Kvitova responded by breaking back and then successfully defending her serve to level the set at 5-5, saving two match points.
Both players held their serve until the tie-break, but once again Wozniacki managed the pressure better. The Danish player's tenacity in defense forced her opponent to make several unforced errors, including a double fault, securing the victory for the former world No. 1 by 7-5, 7-6(5).
In the third round, Wozniacki will face another player making a comeback to the Grand Slam stage. Jennifer Brady hadn’t participated in a Grand Slam since 2021 French Open, having been away for two years due to injury.
She has now reached the third round after victories over lucky loser Kimberly Birrell and the 24th seed Magda Linette.
Wozniacki d. Kvitova 7-5 7-6(5) 1773 days That’s how long it’s been since Caroline beat a top 20 player That player was Petra in 2018 ✅1st GS R3 since retirement After 2 kids.. Her movement is just as quick Her backhand is just as sharp But her smile is even brighter 🇩🇰❤️
