Nice mention of Barbora in this article
The Pole is world No 1 but Aryna Sabalenka won the Australian Open and Barbora Krejcikova beat Swiatek in Dubai
www.theguardian.com
Most players understandably cower against the WTA’s dominant star in such form, but Barbora Krejcikova has consistently proved her toughness and quality in the biggest moments of her career. With an exhibition of daring, early ball-striking and her deep toolbox of variety, the Czech toppled Swiatek in straight sets. She is the only player since 2019 to defeat Swiatek in a final, a distinction she has now achieved twice.
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2...is-title-people-fighting-and-dying-in-ukraine
Barbora Krejcikova celebrates winning the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship, her biggest singles victory since the 2021 French Open. Photograph: Karim Sahib/AFP/Getty Images
On the notoriously slow courts of Indian Wells, however, they face their own challenges. Sabalenka, who lost in three sets against Krejcikova in Dubai, will look to build her form again in the bottom half of the draw. Rybakina, seeded 10th, can only face Swiatek in the quarter-final.
Krejcikova, meanwhile, offers a completely different challenge. Her immaculate timing and soft hands allow her to redirect from any part of the court and generate wicked angles, her heavy forehand is one of the best in the world and she possesses a complete game refined on the doubles court. Her talent is undeniable.
Krejcikova, now 27, initially followed up her shock 2021 French Open triumph well but an elbow injury forced her out for four months in 2022 and broke down her confidence. Only now has she re-established her form and her status as one of the biggest threats.