American Christina McHale breaks her duck on WTA Tour
Monday 19 September 2016 07:20, UK
Christina McHale came from a set and a break down in the final of the Japan Open to secure her maiden title on the WTA Tour.
The 24-year-old American beat Katerina Siniakova 3-6 6-4 6-4 at Ariake Forest Park, in a contest that lasted two hours and 42 minutes.
However, at one stage world No 65 Siniakova, from the Czech Republic, was just two points away from taking a 5-2 lead in the second set before being overhauled by the number seven seed.
McHale, whose only previous WTA Tour final came in Acapulco two years ago, responded by taking eight straight games in Tokyo.
Despite a slight wobble when within sight of victory in the deciding set, the resident of New Jersey held her nerve to claim the title by breaking serve to love.
McHale, the world No 53, said: "I don't ever want to put my trophy down .I just want to hold it all the time.
"I've been coming to this tournament for a few years now and I really love it here."
Runner-up Siniakova added: "I'm a little sad. But Christina played really well, so congratulations to her."
