LO 2019 – Bertens praises Riske and spectators

Kiki Bertens was very close to winning the Libéma Open 2019. Holland’s number one was leading with 6-0 4-1 against Alison Riske in the final, but did not cash five match points and was finally defeated with 0-6 7-6(3) 7-5.

The world’s number four even had a fall on the grass court, which made her leave the court at 6-0 1-0 for a treatment on her groin. However, according to Bertens the injury had no influence on her play.

‘You cannot blame it on a injury if you have so many chances. Afterwards I have to say that I should have used the match points. I tried, also in the third set, but she was better during the important moments. You realise she is really good on grass.’

Bertens, who was hoping to win her 10^th WTA title and the first one on grass, never gave up. ‘It is a final in your home country and it was all looking good, so giving up is not an option,” according to the 27 year old from Wateringen, who was grateful for the home crowd’s support.

‘There was a great atmosphere, the stands were packed. The spectators had a good day and they have supported me the whole week.’