"When you are confident, you can trust your instinct" – Bencic thwarts Pliskova in an epic



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Pliskova started the year with a 12th career WTA title at Brisbane International and won a shocking victory over Serena Williams to qualify for the semifinals of the Australian Open. Triple WTA leader Ace had triumphed twice in three sets this week at Indian Wells, and the semifinalist twice appeared on the verge of doing so, while she had taken a 4- lead 0 to start the second set.

Although Bencic has regained a level close to its level, Pliskova's first famous service has led him through a titanic finale that saw him register a decisive point and convert his fifth game opportunity. Initially throughout the second set, the Czech powerhouse hit 17 winners and 19 non-forced errors, just nine from Bencic.

"I struggled a bit with myself from the start of the match," Pliskova said. "Physically, it was difficult in one way or another today, and the wind did not help much.

"Then my service was bad, my blows were bad," she continued with an ironic smile. "I still think it's good that I fought, it goes to the third set, but otherwise, yes, not even close to my good tennis."

The duo continued to fight for several long games to start the bet, especially because Pliskova served at 1 – 2, fighting four break points and eight two. Steadfast, Bencic lost only one point in his next two service games and quickly beat the former number 1 at his next opportunity.

"I think I've made great progress in the field of fitness," Bencic said. "I really feel like I'm moving a lot, much better on the court than I've ever done.

"In fact, I never feel tired or more tired than my opponent in the field, I think it's a huge improvement, I think you absolutely need it against the top of the world to be incredibly fit. and not just a week, but of course several weeks in a row. "

Unbeaten since the Fed Cup weekend – where she has won two singles victories against Italy's Camila Giorgi and Sara Errani – Bencic extended her winning streak to 12 with a confident 15-game, booking her first half First Mandatory final.

Standing between Bencic and a second consecutive final, the winner of the last quarter-final between the former No. 1 Angélique Kerber and Venus Williams later tonight.

"Both are very tough." I played against Angie this year at the Hopman Cup and at Venus, the last time at the Australian Open. [in 2018]. Obviously, it's amazing to play this kind of champions in the semifinals of the Premier Mandatory tournaments.

"Like, of course it will be a huge respect for all my opponents, yeah, I'll see."

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