Petra Kvitova has now shown impressive consistency, winning five titles this season, splitting these between two each on clay and hard court and one, so far, on grass. This incorporated a 14-match hard court winning streak and a 13-match clay one. Not bad, considering that on balance – grass is her best surface.
Precautionary Injury Withdrawal from Eastbourne Gives Space to Focus on Wimbledon
Speaking of grass, her unbeaten record on that is currently 6-0. This is after winning in Birmingham last week and beating Bondarenko in her only match at Eastbourne. Kvitova withdrew before hitting a ball against Radwanska second round. The Czech wonder cited a hamstring injury as the reason. She immediately reassured fans on Twitter regarding her Wimbledon participation and seems focused on making it there. Bandage makers will do well to look to sponsor the Czech, as yet again, it looks like she’ll be playing heavily strapped. This doesn’t stop her winning.
Ability to just Get in the Zone
Petra Kvitova’s forced absence and off-court event could be an excuse for distraction. On the contrary, this season in particular, she possesses an unerring ability to zone-in. She has twice looked untouchable during two 13+ winning streaks this season.
Kvitova on Course for Two Titles on Each Surface for Season
Given the impressive defense of her Nature Valley Classic title in Birmingham recently Kvitova goes into Wimbledon seeking two titles on each surface. This has to be the definition of seasoned tennis top-level consistency. Defeat to Estonia’s Anett Kontaveit in the 3rd round of the French Open will have hurt the Czech. It underlines the fact that a solid Slam performance is all that is missing from a truly remarkable comeback. This could change at the next Slam (Wimbledon).
Premier Mandatory Title Already in the Bag
The Mutua Madrid Open is the crowning glory of the five titles for Kvitova this season. Kvitova played her ferocious groundstrokes regardless of the opponent, be it Bertens or Pliskova. For periods this season, the crushing Czech has been able to get in the zone – even more so than she did when winning her previous two Wimbledon titles. There has been a fierce determination this season from Kvitova that has seen elevate her level of play at key times. Impressively, Kvitova has been at her best when coming from behind. This was exemplified in her recent Birmingham final victory over Rybarikova.
Wimbledon on Petra Kvitova’s Mind
Winning in Madrid, heavily strapped, was a stark reminder that the Czech has the battle-hardiness of a water bear. This is a quality/strength she has always possessed. It’s just grown stronger since her absence.
Injury or no injury, Kvitova will give it her all at Wimbledon. It’s been more than enough twice before.
