• WTA

Wozniacki battles past Makarova

ESPN staff
September 22, 2012
Caroline Wozniacki is on course to win her first title of 2012 © PA Photos
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Caroline Wozniacki dug deep to see off Ekaterina Makarova in three sets to reach the final of the Korea Open.

The Dane has had a tough time this year, with a string of poor results seeing her slip down the rankings. The former world No. 1 is still seeking her first title of the year, but she is on course to break that record after fending off a spirited effort from Makarova.

Wozniacki made a blistering start, as she dominated Makarova from the back of the court and two breaks of serve handed her the set.

Makarova found a foothold in the second set, as she was able to make an impact on the Wozniacki serve. Breaks were traded and it was Makarova who proved the stronger as she levelled the match.

Confidence has been a problem for Wozniacki this season and she had every opportunity to wilt in the face of an onslaught from Makarova, but the No. 1 seed kept her cool and took a tight third set to claim a 6-1 5-7 6-4 success in almost two and a half hours.

"I did really well in the first set but couldn't close the second set out; I'm happy I finally broke her one more time in the third," Wozniacki said. "She was returning very well today but I was just trying to focus on the next ball and the next game, and moving my feet better. At the end of the day I'm happy to win and I'm looking forward to playing another final."

Kaia Kanepi awaits Wozniacki in the final following her 6-4 2-6 6-4 win over No.6 seed Varvara Lepchenko.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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