Comeback queen Kvitova claims title in Doha

Petra Kvitova came from a set down to claim the Qatar Open title in Doha with a 13th successive victory.

The Czech 16th seed clinched a 3-6 6-3 6-4 win over Spain’s Garbine Muguruza, in the process winning a second title in three weeks and reclaiming her place in the top 10 having started the season ranked at 29.

Asked to explain her blistering start to the season on court afterwards, she said in an interview on BT Sport: “I have no idea. I just tried.

“When I remember where I was one year ago, it was going to be impossible. I could not really dream of it.

“It’s very special to be back. I am not there without my team, without my coaches, without my family and friends, so I am very grateful to have them by my side every time.”

Third seed Muguruza raced into a 5-0 lead in the opening set as Kvitova, who had spent almost twice as long on court this week as her opponent, endured an error-strewn opening to the match.

However, having finally eased her way into the match – although not quickly enough to rescue the first set – the 27-year-old took the second courtesy of a break in the sixth game and then powered her way through a gruelling third to claim victory on her second championship point.

It was Kvitova’s 22nd career title and came a fortnight after she triumphed in St Petersburg.