World No.1 Ashleigh Barty and World No.15 Garbine Muguruza locked horns to conclude the Yarra Valley Classic 2021. They summed up the week before the Australian Open 2021 perfectly, with both displaying quality tennis. In the end, it was Barty who outclassed the Spaniard in two straight sets, winning 7-6, 6-4.

The WTA 500 Melbourne event came as a blessing for fans aching for live tennis action. But a final between the current and former World No.1 exceeded every expectation. And more than that, they both raised their game to the occasion.

Barty vs Muguruza: 1-0

The two-time Grand Slam champion Garbine Muguruza got the first break in the match. But in no time the 2019 French Open champion Ashleigh Barty recovered her loss by getting a break back. The match was level at three games all.

Before this match, the 27-year-old Spaniard had not conceded more than two games in a set throughout the tournament. But the title match required her to pull up her socks against the 24-year-old Australian’s fine game.

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Breaking one another’s service again, they extended the set to seven games. The top-seed used the match as an opportunity to test her precision on the court, passing with flying colors as she it six aces.

And in addition to her aggressive shots, Muguruza hit many inch-perfect returns in the match.

The thunderous set couldn’t separate one from another; however, the Australian got herself the lead by winning the ti-break 7-3.

Ashleigh Barty wins her first title at home

They started the second set with an exquisite rally which ended with Barty returning an absolute gem. Moving closer to the title, she took the first two games of the set.

As a result, the Spaniard found herself trailing behind the World No.1 player. And even though Muguruza broke Barty’s serve and leveled the game, she gave up the lead right after, on her own service game.

Barty took full advantage of the situation, and she served gracefully for the championship game.

The Australian won her first title in her first tournament of the 2021 season at home. This will be a great boost for her next big challenge, as she will want to continue with this rhythm as she ventures into the Australian Open.

Above all, both the players will enter the Australian Open 2021 in high spirits. From where we stand, it looks like the next tournament will be a total blockbuster, after all, it’s the first Grand Slam of the year.

Who are your favorites for the Happy Slam?

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