|
Simona Halep marked herself out as a contender for the French Open by beating Dominika Cibulkova 6-2, 6-4 to win the Madrid title. The Romanian, beaten by Maria Sharapova in the final at Roland Garros two years ago, began the season ranked second in the world but has slipped to seventh after a poor run of form. However, Halep will be back in the top five on Monday after claiming her 12th career title at the Caja Magica. "I'm really happy I could win this trophy, it's very special for me," said Halep, who lost the 2014 final in Madrid. "It's amazing for me to be able to speak to you for a second time on this court. "It's an unbelievable feeling. It's the best day in my life." The fifth seed certainly had a helping hand as the favourites fell away around her. Serena Williams was felled by flu before the start, Victoria Azarenka withdrew during the tournament, and Agnieszka Radwanska, Garbine Muguruza and Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber all lost early. But Halep, the only seed to make the quarterfinals, made sure it was she who was the last woman standing to win her second WTA Tour Premier Mandatory title. She made a brilliant start against Cibulkova, opening up a 5-1 lead and then fighting off break points when the Slovakian threatened a comeback. The second set was much tighter but ultimately Halep's early break decided it and the sixth seed clinched victory after an hour and 20 minutes. Associated Press contributed to this report
|
