Not sure if it was the best WTA match I've watched in ages, but certainly not the worst. Ash certainly played at a high level and Marketa, obviously nervous, at a lower level, but finals can be like that. But your points are valid. No shrieking, no fake effort grunting/shrieking, no tantrums, no angrily disputed line calls. The embrace between the two was genuinely warm and as is well known, Ash is the most liked player on tour. It is impossible not to like her and Marketa seems to also be very likeable.
As to the younger Americans coming through, Collins, Kenin and Anisimova, let's wait and see.
