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Kenin's dream comes true at the Australian Open.
MELBOURNE, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- Sofia Kenin won her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open on Saturday, overpowering Spain's Garbine Muguruza in the final, 4-6, 6-2, 6-2.
Despite being just 21-years-old, the American's skill and determination shone on the night, as well as throughout the tournament; beating World No. 1 Ash Barty in the semifinal.
"My dream has officially come true, I can't even describe this feeling. It's so emotional and I've worked so hard and I'm just so grateful to be standing here," Kenin said in a post-match interview.
"So if you have a dream, go for it, and it's going to come true."
Kenin also thanked her father and her coach who were in the crowd, as well as her mother who was watching from back home.
Early on, Muguruza's powerful serve proved lethally effective, with the Spanish player winning almost all of her successful first serves and taking the first set in a dominant fashion.
Kenin was returning a ball in the final. (Xinhua/Zhu Wei)
In response, the determined Kenin was able to move Muguruza around the court, lifting the pressure, tiring her opponent and getting the first break in the second set.
Despite being a break up, Kenin didn't hide her desire to control every point, as well as her frustration when things didn't go her way.
The feisty American powered on to claim the second set, and would hold a number of break points early on in the third set to keep herself on top.
Muguruza gave up her own serve with a double fault after being unable to break through Kenin's defences, leaving the American serving at 5-2.
To the dismay of Muguruza, Kenin would break her again claiming the set and the championship on an eighth double fault from the apparently flustered Spaniard.
Kenin's composure under pressure, and maturity beyond her years, drew praise from observers throughout the tournament and she will walk away the highest ranked U.S. player at world No. 7.
