Muhammad takes out Canberra title
American Asia Muhammad has won the biggest title of her career with victory at the Canberra Tennis International on Sunday.
Canberra ACT 2601, Australia, 8 November 2015 | David Packman
Asia Muhammad has won the 2015 Canberra Tennis International women’s title with a straight sets 6-4 6-3 victory over second seed Eri Hozumi on Sunday.
The win represents the first $50,000-level title for the 24-year-old American, who has been in strong form since arriving in Australia for the Pro Tour.
“It feels amazing,” Muhammad said. “There’s something about Australia that I just love. I don’t know if it’s because of my coach (Aussie expat Tim Blenkiron) or that I’m just really excited to be here.”
The big-hitting Muhammad controlled her opponent in the final, her ability to dominate rallies getting the better of the Japanese 21-year-old.
“At times I kind of overpowered her so that helped me out a lot,” Muhammad said. “I also knew if I mixed it up a little she wouldn’t really like that.
“I feel like I’m an awkward player but also very aggressive. Usually, if things are going smoothly, I want to hit big serves and attack with my forehand.”
In Saturday’s semifinal, Muhammad reversed her recent loss to Queensland’s Kimberly Birrell, taking out the talented teenager in a close three-set affair after squandering match points in the second.
“That was a really mental match for me. She came back and beat me in Brisbane and here she came back again. Some negative thoughts definitely came into my head but I managed to push them out,” she said.
Muhammad and Hozumi also squared off in the doubles final but this time it was the Japanese who claimed the title; pairing with compatriot Misa Eguchi, the top seeds defeated Muhammad and Lauren Embree in a titanic battle, 7-6(13) 1-6 [14-12].
Live scores of all Australian Pro Tour events are available at www.tennis.com.au/protour/scores and for a live stream of selected events visit www.tennis.com.au/protour.