HARUNA FUKUOKA IS THE WOMEN'S SINGLES CHAMPION

The winner of the women's singles competition was Haruna Fukuoka after beating Nicoletta Stefanova in a thrilling dispute. Fukuoka, who has one of the most peculiar serves at the event, won the match after losing the first two games (8/11, 7/11, 11/5, 11/8, 11/6 and 11/7). It was Japan's first and only title at the Brazilian Open.

 

"Finals are always difficult, more so when you start behind like I did. But before the third game begun I thought my tactics over and managed to impose my style of play and felt more confident. I decided to fight for it. I was very tense and I still can't bealive I won", she said.

 

About her serve she explained: "It took me eight years to make it perfect. Now I can place the ball where ever I want".