Petra Kvitova Wins 2011 WTA Championships; Is She The Real WTA Player of the Year?

Petra Kvitova, 2011 WTA Championships Winner

In thrilling fashion, Petra Kvitova won a three set battle against Victoria Azarenka, 7-5 4-6 6-3, to emerge the champion at the 2011 WTA Championships. Whomever had won this match would ascend to the world #2 ranking, behind only Caroline Wozniacki. Petra started out like she was determined it would be her, opening up a 5-0 lead. Vika is not one to roll over and just fade away. She fought back to make the first set close before taking the second set at 4. But perhaps destiny is awaiting Petra as she closed out Vika in the final set for her 6th title of the year…oh yeah, and a nice little $1,750,000 winner’s check.

And that brings up the same question as last year, who is the real Player of the Year. Last year Caroline had the points and computer #1, but Kim Clijsters had the US Open and the Tour Championships. Caroline had more wins, but Kim had a higher winning percentage playing much less events. The ITF named Caroline the Player of the Year. The WTA players voted Kim the Player of the Year. Leaving the injured and part time playing Clijsters and Serena Williams aside, this year we have Caroline with 6 victories and the #1 computer ranking secured. Petra Kvitova also has 6 titles, but has won both Wimbledon and the Tour Championships. We know Caroline will finish the year ranked #1, but who do you think is the 2011 Player of the Year?