By Adrianna Outlaw | Sunday, July 24, 2016

Laura Siegemund still remembers her first appearance in the Bastad main draw six years ago.

The 28-year-old German scored an unforgettable Bastad victory today.

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Siegemund dispatched 20-year-old Czech qualifier Katerina Siniakova, 7-5, 6-1, in the Ericsson Open final to collect her first career WTA title.

"It's a great feeling. I want to have more of it," Siegemund said. "Of course, I'm really, really happy, very excited. Worked hard for this, this week but also for a longer time already. So I'm very proud of myself and very happy."

Siegemund, who was runner-up to Angelique Kerber in Stuttgart in April, used her return game to pressure Siniakova, who was riding a five-match winning streak into the final, including victories over former French Open finalist Sara Errani and 2015 champion Johanna Larsson.

The sixth-seeded Siegemund won 16 of 24 points played on Siniakova's second serve and converted five of eight break points.

"It was hard. We both came out kind of nervous," Siegemund said. "I think this is normal. (I) just try to find my game. I guess in the end I was a little more solid and found my game a little more. I'm excited I'm the winner."

Siegemund is an intelligent player, who is willing to change the pace, can drop shot off both wings is quick around the court and one of the few Top 40 players who plays with a Volkl racquet.

The 40th-ranked Siegemund is projected to rise as high as No. 32 when the new WTA rankings are released tomorrow.

For now, she's focusing on celebrating her career breakthrough.



"It means a lot. This place is just very special," Siegemund said. "To win in my favorite tournament, it's just very special. I'm excited I can celebrate with everyone now. It's just awesome."