WTA Finals: Muguruza makes history after conquering Kontaveit in year-ending decider

Gudalajara (Mexico), November 18: Garbine Muguruza became the first Spaniard to win the WTA Finals after defeating Anett Kontaveit 6-3 7-5 in a history-making victory.

Arantxa Sanchez Vicario was the only other player from Spain to reach the WTA Finals decider, finishing runner-up to Stefanie Graf in 1993.

But Muguruza exceeded that result as the former world number one proved too strong for Kontaveit at the prestigious year-ending championship on Wednesday (November 17).

Muguruza – a two-time grand slam champion – also celebrated her 10th WTA Tour title, having been the only player to beat Kontaveit within the last month following her group-stage success in Guadalajara.

The first Spaniard to win the @WTAFinals 🙌

🇪🇸 @GarbiMuguruza cruises to victory in straight-sets over Kontaveit to claim the #AKRONWTAFinals trophy 🏆 pic.twitter.com/0VNofMRosv

— wta (@WTA) November 18, 2021

After exchanging breaks in the opening set, Muguruza struck for a 4-3 lead, winning the last four games to seize control midweek.

Kontaveit claimed the early break in the second set as errors started to mount for Muguruza, who eventually found herself 5-3 adrift.

But as Kontaveit served for the set, Muguruza rallied in a dominant display, reeling off four consecutive games like she did in the opener to take home the WTA crown.

WINNERS/UNFORCED ERRORS

Kontaveit – 15/39

Muguruza – 16/25

ACES/DOUBLE FAULTS

Kontaveit – 3/6

Muguruza – 2/0

BREAK POINTS WON

Kontaveit – 2/4

Muguruza – 5/11