Goerges extends streak, ousts Wozniacki for Auckland crown

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Julia Goerges kept on winning in Auckland, serving out a third straight title with a 6-4, 7-6(4) victory over former WTA World No.1 Caroline Wozniacki, earning her the ASB Classic trophy.

"It feels amazing, I must say," Goerges said after winning her fifth WTA title."It's not just about winning here, but the consistency I've had for the last few weeks and months. That makes me prouder, and I'm just enjoying every moment of it."

Seeded No.2 in Auckland, the 2016 runner-up thundered through her 10th match against the Dane, striking 41 winners to only 23 unforced errors to clinch the title after 90 minutes on court.

"She played really well today, and she had a great end to last season too, so it's good to see her bringing that form into this year. I'll try to get my revenge in Australia!" Wozniacki said during the trophy ceremony, noting Goerges' 6-4 head-to-head advantage.

Goerges and Wozniacki each ended 2017 on high notes, the German with back-to-back victories at the Kremlin Cup and the Hengqin Life WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai, while Wozniacki won the biggest title of her career at the BNP Paribas WTA Finals Singapore presented by SC Global.

Tentatively up to a career-high ranking of No.12, the German had been due to play as No.7 seed at the Apia International Sydney but has withdrawn due to a right knee injury. She will be replaced in the main draw by her compatriot and lucky loser Carina Witthoeft.