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By Erik Gudris | Saturday, February 28, 2015

 
Lucie Safarova Doha

Lucie Safarova won the biggest title of her career in Doha by defeating former event winner Victoria Azarenka.

Photo Credit: Francois Nei/Getty

At the Qatar Total Open in Doha, the week and the title belonged not to a former champion but to a veteran playing some of the best tennis of her career.

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In Saturday's final, Lucie Safarova found a way to not only defeat Victoria Azarenka for the first time but also claim the biggest title of her career to date.

"It's a big tournament win so I'm very excited and happy," Safarova said just after winning the title.

With her efforts this week, Safarova is also projected to climb to a career high ranking of No. 11.

"That's amazing," Safarova said when told the news. "I'm very happy how the season is progressing and I just keeping doing the same. Keep working hard and reaching more goals."

Safarova entered the final not having ever beaten Azarenka in six previous tries and only had won one set off of the former No. 1. For Azarenka, the former champion enjoyed several big wins including over Caroline Wozniacki and Venus Williams to reach the final stage. Azarenka also enjoyed a 14-match win streak at the event, stretching back to 2012 when she won the tittle two years in a row.

Yet, early on it was Safarova who took control. With Azarenka starting off in ragged form, Safarova was able to break in the opening game. Azarenka soon started connecting better on her shots and would break back for 3-all.

Azarenka handed the break back by netting a backhand down break point. That allowed Safarova to eventually close out the set 6-4 with a well-placed wide serve.

The second set saw Azarenka struggle again. Though she didn't call for a trainer, Azarenka appeared bothered by a leg or foot issue as she failed to connect often on her favorite backhand wing.

Safarova took another early break lead yet had to deal with Azarenka battling to keep things close. Azarenka found herself with several break point chances in the sixth game. But Safarova with another lefty wide serve would get out of trouble and hold for 4-2.

Azarenka would not be able to close the gap and a few games later found herself serving down 0-40 with Safarova leading 5-3. Azarenka saved two match points. But Azarenka would then send a final forehand just wide giving Safarova the victory.

With that, Safarova celebrated the 6-4, 6-3 win giving her a sixth career title.

Safarova hit 27 winners and just 11 unforced errors compared to 22 winners from Azarenka who hit 21 unforced errors.

Safarova's last title came in 2013 at Quebec City.

 

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