Watson Wins Midland Title

Britain's Heather Watson claimed her first trophy of the season as she won the Dow Corning Tennis Classic, brushing aside Ksenia Pervak 6-4 6-0.

The Guernsey-born youngster continues her fine start to 2014 as she failed to drop a single set in the second-tier event in Midland.

The victory sees her continued her ascent back up the rankings as she attempts to break back into the top 100 to ensure she avoids having to qualify for Grand Slams. This week she rose nearly 40 places from 161st to 122nd.

During the first set it looked as though nerves may get the better of the youngster as she found herself 4-1 down to a dominant Pervak. However Watson regained her composure, winning the next eleven consecutive games to claim both the first and second set in quick succession.

Her strong start to 2014 will come as a welcome relief, after spending much of 2013 off the court following a long battle with glandular fever. The illness saw her plummet down the rankings, narrowly avoiding dropping out of the top 200.

It was a weekend to remember for Watson as she followed up on her singles success with a hard-fought victory in the doubles finals as well. Alongside her partner Anna Tatishvili, she won the title after a nervy Championship tie-break decider in the third set against Sharon Fichman and Maria Sanchez.

Published on SEaT Capital.