Wozniacki cuts back on gym and feels better for it

Former world No.1 Caroline Wozniacki has changed her preparation in her quest to climb world rankings

FRESH: Caroline Wozniaki's training regime paid off against Monica Puig at the Sydney International. Picture: Rick Rycroft

TENNIS: Less time in the gym is Caroline Wozniacki's new approach to training, and after she dispatched Olympic champion Monica Puig from the Sydney International it may be the key to getting her back among the best in the world.

Former world No.1 Wozniacki won an absorbing match over Puig 6-3 2-6 6-4 to advance into the second round at the Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre.

Wozniacki, now ranked No.20, revealed she has changed her preparation for this new season.

"I changed up my practice quite a bit. I did a lot of other things, probably spent more time on court than I have in a long time and less time in the gym, actually,” 26-year-old Wozniacki said.

"That was a big change for me, because I have worked so hard on my fitness and worked so hard on trying to prevent injuries, but at the end of the day, I think I sometimes need to ease off a little bit.

"I guess I'm not a spring chicken any more. Sometimes less is more.

"But I have really focused on some main parts of my game and just really worked hard and tried to prepare as best as I can.

"For the first time in a long time, the whole off-season, I didn't have any problems. Right now, knock on wood, I'm feeling good.”

Puig, who made the final in Sydney last year, pushed the Dane all the way, but Wozniacki adjusted to play from deeper in the court in the final round to gain an advantage with her forehands.

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Originally published as Wozniacki cuts back on gym and feels better for it