Thus far, 2017 has not been kind to Angelique Kerber. But her game, and reflexes, came together for a few rounds in Dubai, especially in her quarterfinal win over Ana Konjuh. The German did something fans don't see much of—she successfully swapped her racquet to her non-dominant hand and managed to win the point.

Going into Dubai, Kerber had a 4-5 record. She lost in the first of Sydney and failed to defend her Australian Open title (losing in the round of 16), losing her No. 1 spot to Serena Williams. Then the 29-year-old lost in the first round of Doha.

Things looked better for Kerber this week in Dubai, albeit briefly. She strew together a run of winning matches, before falling to Elina Svitolina in the semifinals, 6-3, 7-6 (3).

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