Monica Puig is earned her place in the annals for tennis history…
The 20-year-old professional tennis player, considered a rising star in women’s tennis, defeated Spain’s Silvia Soler-Espinosa 6-4, 6-3 in the Strasbourg International final to become the first Puerto Rican player to win a WTA title.
“It’s amazing to do this coming from such a small island, where tennis isn’t necessarily recognized as one of the main sports,” said Puig after her straight-sets victory. “I’m just happy I’m able to be here playing tennis not only for myself, but for my country too.”
In a match between two players appearing in their first WTA final, the Puig was on top from the start as she broke Soler-Espinosa in her first service game. She also broke twice in the second set, including in the final game.
Puig dropped just nine points on serve all match, two of which were double-faults.
“I woke up this morning and I felt it. I felt I was going to do something amazing,” said Puig, currently ranked No. 56 in the world. “It was one of those feelings where you just know it’s going to happen, and I played some of the greatest tennis I’ve ever played.”
Puig next heads to the French Open where she’ll face off against 2010 finalist Sam Stosur in the first round.
Soler-Espinosa faces Chanelle Scheepers at Roland Garros.
