Kerber wins in Stuttgart

Early on it looked as though Caroline Wozniacki would run out to an easy win on the sands of Stuttgart. The hard-serving Dane got off to a blistering start, taking the first set 6-3.

But despite playing with a heavily bandaged thigh, world number 14 Angelique Kerber hung tough and began running her opponent, ranked number 4, around the baseline with powerful groundstrokes. And Kerber's return of serve improved as well. The second was a clear 6-1 affair for the German.

Wozniacki increased the pressure in the decider and got an early service break. But she was unable to hold her own serve against the aggressive Kerber. And after 2 hours and 4 minutes, the German converted her fourth match point to take the title in front of an understandably pleased home crowd. The final score: 3-6, 6-1, 7-5.

Kerber won in Charleston, South Carolina two weeks ago and is currently riding an 11-match winning streak. The Stutttgart title earned her 100,000 euros (108,000 dollars) and a sports car.