Ankita Raina made light of the challenge of beating the top seed and World No. 122, Arantxa Rus of the Netherlands, as she won 6-3, 6-2 in the final of the $25,000 ITF women’s tennis tournament here on Sunday.
It was the first title of the season and eighth singles title of her career.
“I am very happy to win this tournament. Even though it is a $25,000 event, it was a lot of tough competition,” said Ankita.
Coach Hemant Bendre had accompanied Ankita to the Australian Open, and to the event in Singapore.
“There were a few things that I needed to work on mentally which I am happy I could work with my coach as he was around before the tournament. He eventually left after the first round, due to other commitments back home,” said Ankita.
In the final, Ankita faced two break points on her serve and saved both. She converted three of seven breakpoints that she forced, to race to the trophy.
“I have been working on my serve for a long while now. I think it is starting to help. I also feel that there is more power in my strokes,” she said.
Ankita will play another tournament in Singapore to get ready for the Fed Cup in Kazakhstan.
“The confidence of winning matches and title would help me go to the next level for the Fed Cup. I will not feel new playing against those players. I strongly believe that we have a good chance for the team this year,” Ankita, who will be spearheading the Indian team along with Karman Kaur Thandi in Fed Cup, said.
The results: $25,000 ITF women, Singapore: Final: Ankita Raina bt Arantxa Rus (Ned) 6-3, 6-2 .
