Ruthless Kerber sets up final showdown with Cibulkova in Singapore
German world No 1 crushes defending champion Radwanska and meets Slovakian, who is making her debut in Lion City, for the title
Angelique Kerber continued her relentless march towards a maiden WTA Finals crown with a comprehensive 6-2, 6-1 victory over defending champion Agnieszka Radwanska on Saturday to set up a title showdown against Dominika Cibulkova.
The German enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with victories at the Australian and US Opens to usurp Serena Williams at the top of the world rankings and after another dominant display, she will be favoured to cap her season with the Singapore title on Sunday.
“I was trying to be focused on every single point because playing against her is so tough, so I just made sure I played my game and was aggressive,” Kerber said. “It’s amazing to think that I will be in the final in Singapore.”
Both players are renowned for their exemplary defence and supreme athleticism but, with serving not considered their strongest suit, it was hardly surprising to see the contest start with three straight breaks in favour of the German.
Kerber gave her Polish opponent no free points, got everything back and forced Radwanska into playing an extra shot on every rally, the constant pressure leading to another break in the seventh game, enough for the German to claim the opener.
Radwanska struggled to come up with any answers as the alarmingly consistent Kerber ran away with the contest against her dispirited opponent with four more breaks of serve.