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 Ranked in the top 10 at the end of 2011 with two titles on her
resume and regarded as one of the WTA Tour's rising stars, Petkovic
had plenty of reason and occasions to kick up her heels.
Better known for her post-match dance 'the Petko' than her punishing
forehand, Petkovic's career was on an upward arc until 2012 when she
was hit by a string of injuries that sent her ranking into a
nose-dive.
A sore back was followed by ankle and knee injuries that left her
sidelined for almost all the 2012 season leaving her 143rd in the
world at the end of the year.
Back in Miami, with a new coach and fit, Petkovic is looking to
climb another rung on the rankings ladder this next fortnight.
"It (Miami) is kind of a special tournament, I don't know why," said
Petkovic, who has clawed her way back to number 37. "When I come
here I just feel very comfortable, I like the courts. I just seem to
play well here.
"Coming out on center court was really nice, I have such great
memories here, two or three great matches here on center court in
2011 so that was kind of emotional. Somehow it is special.
"Let's hope it keeps going." Miami's party vibe appears to
resonate with Petkovic who counts the tournament as one of her
favorites and has a semi-final appearance in 2011 to back up her
assessment.
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After first-round exits at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells and
Doha, and failing to get through qualifying at Dubai, Petkovic was
finally back on the winning track in Miami.
"I was struggling the last month after the Fed Cup, we had such a
huge win there," said Petkovic, who will take on 22nd seeded
Frenchwoman Alize Cornet in the second round. "After huge wins there
is always kind of a letdown and I changed coaches so I needed time
to adjust.
"I have had a few tough losses the past month and I saw Torro beat
(Angelique) Kerber last week so I was very aware of her ability to
play well and beat the top players so I was on my toes.
"With most of the match, very happy."
(Editing by Ian Ransom)
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