Ana Ivanovic achieved a career milestone on Sunday after capturing her first grasscourt title. The Serbian former world number one defeated Barbora Zahlavova Strycova of Czech republic 6-3, 6-2 to win the Premier-level Aegon Classic in Birmingham.
This is Ivanovic’s 14th career WTA title but her first on grasscourts. She won 11 hardcourt titles and two in claycourts prior to this win. Of course, her biggest win was the Roland Garros tournament in 2008.
Her victory in Birmingham will see Ivanovic’s ranking rise from number 13 to number 11 on Monday. In the Road to Singapore standings, her ranking will rise from number 8 to number 6.
“Ana was playing really well – I want to wish her good luck at Wimbledon,” Zahlavova Strycova said during the trophy ceremony. “For me, I enjoyed myself so much this week. The crowd was amazing.”
“Barbora had an amazing week too – best of luck at ‘s-Hertogenbosch and Wimbledon,” Ivanovic said. “The crowd really has been amazing. I enjoyed my time here and I look forward to next year.”
The doubles title was won by Abigail Spears and Raquel Kops-Jones after the duo defeated defending champion Casey Dellacqua and Ashleigh Barty 7-6, 6-1.
