|
|
Article: Graf Downs Sukova, Wins 5th Grand Slam Title in Row
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- January 28, 1989
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
|
Steffi Graf, overcoming her toughest test of the tournament, beat
fifth-seeded Helena Sukova of Czechoslovakia, 6-4, 6-4, at the
Australian Open today to capture her fifth straight Grand Slam title.
Sukova jumped to a 4-3 lead in the opening set before Graf took
control with her fierce forehand and won the next seven games.
Sukova mounted another challenge in the second set, saving two match
points to close to 4-5, but Graf held serve with a forehand passing
shot to win the match.
The 71-minute match, played in 100-degree heat at the National
Tennis Center, was Graf's longest of the tournament. The 19-year-old
West German also lost more games than in any of her previous matches
during the ...