Pratt wins tough battle in Thailand

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2007

PATTAYA, Thailand (AFP) — Australian veteran Nicole Pratt claimed a thrilling three-set win over second seed Maria Kirilenko from Russia in the opening round of the Pattaya Open.

Pratt was won their previous two encounters but Tuesday's match was a nailbiting affair before the Australian eventually emerged with the 7-6 (7/1), 2-6, 7-5 victory.

Pratt put her opponent under pressure right from the start, breaking to lead 2-1. Kirilenko managed to level 3-3 and then pushed Pratt to a tiebreak which the Australian dominated, hitting a sizzling crosscourt winner to take the set.

Kirilenko responded by controlling the second set, hitting fine forehands and mixing up her game with some well-struck dropshots, as she raced to a 4-0 lead.

Pratt dug deep and...