Karman Kaur claims crown

Bests Costoulas in a three-hour thriller

Karman Kaur Thandi put up a majestic game in her 6-4, 2-6, 6-1 victory over world No. 3 junior Sofia Costoulas of Belgium in the final of the $25,000 ITF women’s tennis at the Tennis Project in Baliawas on Sunday.

More than her ability to play the big game, serving solid and hammering winners, the 24-year-old Karman won everyone’s heart with her fighting spirit, while capturing her second title at this level.

After a good start, she recovered from being down 2-4 in the first set, to seal it at 6-4. In the second, the 17-year-old Belgian showed what she was capable of, with her athleticism and intelligent game.

In the three-hour battle, the key was the dash to the finish and Karman got it perfect. After taking a shower that gave her a cool mind, as the ITF heat rule allowed a 10-minute break before the decider, Karman had the resolve to take charge.

The wiry Karman broke Sofia’s serve in the fourth game for a 3-1 lead and tightened her grip after that, closing out the match without any further drama.

‘’I am very happy. It is a new beginning for me. I had no expectations coming into this tournament. I just wanted to get on court and play my game. I did have the niggles and pain, but am happy to have pulled through,’’ said Karman, quick to thank her physio Diksha and long-time coach Aditya Sachdeva.

‘’Whatever chances I got, I converted. Taking the lead was important in that third set’’, Karman said.