Karolina Pliskova thrashes Angelique Kerber at Eastboure final

Updated 29/06/2019 at 13:32 GMT

Karolina Pliskova made a strong statement of intent ahead of WImbledon by beating reigning champion Angelique Kerber in straight sets at the Eastbourne Open final on Saturday.

Czech Republic's Karolina Pliskova reacts during the final against Germany's Angelique Kerber

Image credit: Reuters

Closing the opening set in just 30 minutes Pliskova allowed Kerber to take just one game in the opening set, after breaking the German's first two service games, then going on to win the first set 6-1.

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In the second set Pliskova's dominance looked likely to continue as she broke Kerber's opening service game on her second break point.

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However, Kerber staged something of a comeback and held on, defending three break points to keep the set from drifting at 3-4.

The damage had been done, however, and Pliskova served out the set to win 6-1, 6-4 in an hour and 13 minutes.

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