Women's tennis is broadened.
A couple of weeks ago, Maria Sakkari became the first Greek to reach the playoffs in Gudalajara, moved from China due to the pandemic, and now it is clear that Kontaveit is the first Estonian to reach the playoffs.
Kontaveit also reaches the top 10 in the ranking for the first time and is eight on this week's list.
- I still do not think I know what's going on.
I am so incredibly happy that I was able to win the final and I am so proud that I succeeded, says Kontaveit according to WTA's website after his first victory against Halep - that at his home ground.
Halep could, however, bring with him something positive.
- I got to play a final at the end of a tough year and it is always welcome even if it was not in the biggest tournament.
I'm happy with how the game worked, says the former world setter Halep who slipped down to 22nd place in the world.
Taken four titles this fall
Kontaveit's autumn has been remarkable.
Since the loss in the first round in Cincinnati on August 17, which was then the fifth loss in a row, she has won 26 of 28 matches and taken home four WTA titles.
Kontaveit had a bad conscience for pushing Ons Jabeur out of the WTA playoffs November 10-17, saying:
- I apologize for doing this to you, Wed, says Kontaveit and received a response on Twitter.
"The apology is accepted but I will meet you in Guadalajara anyway because I am going there as a reserve," the Tunisian writes.