beIN SPORTS

Newly minted World No.1, Angelique Kerber, crashed out of the second round of the Italian Open. The German superstar was swiftly beaten by World No. 68, Anett Kontaveit, 6-4, 6-0, in just 56 minutes. 

In a post match presser the German reminded the media that although the match was disappointing, clay isn't her preferred surface. 

"Everybody knows I'm not a clay court specialist. I was not playing good last year, as well. I had a great year, but I mean, these few weeks I was not playing good," said Kerber.

It was another tough blow for the struggling German, who just last week retired from the Madrid Open in the third round after sustaining a thigh injury against Eugenie Bouchard. With the French Open looming though, the tennis ace is hopeful about regaining her stride.  "I think I need one good match to get also my confidence back and then to seeing that it works, actually. Because I'm working hard, I'm trying to practice really hard..."