Kvitova defeats Pliskova in Apia International Sydney final

Petra Kvitova has her first trophy of the season.

Kvitova overcame fellow Czech Karolina Pliskova 7-6(5), 7-6(6) in the Apia International Sydney final Friday.

The reigning Wimbledon champ and fourth-ranked player in the world needed one hour and 52 minutes to hold off Pliskova and win her 15th career title.

“It’s always tough to play a final,” Pliskova said.

“I’m glad I stand here as the winner of this tournament. It’s always going to stay as a great memory in my mind.”

The win should give her some momentum heading into a Grand Slam that Kvitova has historically had trouble at. 

In seven appearances at the Australian Open, Kvitova's best finish was a semifinal match in 2012. She's also been eliminated in the first round three times, including last year to Luksika Kumkhum.