Doha: Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova stormed back into the world's top 10 for the first time since being stabbed just over two years ago when she beat Spain's Garbine Muguruza in the Qatar Open final on Sunday for her second title of the season.

Coming into the tournament 21st in the WTA rankings, the Czech won 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in two hours and 16 minutes to add to her triumph in St Petersburg earlier this month.

Kvitova was in trouble as she trailed 0-5 in the first set with fourth seed Muguruza looking to snap the Czech's winning streak at 12 matches.

But former world No.2 Kvitova dug deep to take the contest into a decider and ground out the victory.

Asked how she managed to turn the contest around, Kvitova said: "I have no idea. I just tried... It was a really tough match, a big fight and hopefully the people enjoyed it."

Kvitova was forced to take a break from tennis after being attacked by a knife-wielding intruder at her home in 2016.

She returned to action after surgery on her playing hand last year but fell short of the top 10, ending the season 11th. "It feels great (to be in the top 10)," Kvitova said. "I mean, first of all, I think that it feels much better right now because top 10 is the number. Of course, it's such a great achievement to be back there.

"I couldn't really dream about it one year ago when I was in (a) total different position trying to come back and play. And for me, it's something that's amazing.

"I couldn't really wish for more. I played great tennis, St Petersburg and here as well. So that means a lot to me."

Kvitova's return to form will put her back in contention for majors this season.

"That's why I came back, to try to have great results in the Grand Slams and the big tournaments," she said.

However, fitness remains a worry for Kvitova.

On Monday, Kvitova became the latest high-profile withdrawal from this week's WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

The in-form Czech, winner of the tournament in 2013, confirmed her omission citing a leg injury.

She joins other marquee names in Maria Sharapova, Simona Halep and Madison Keys in pulling out of the event this past week. Julia Goerges, the world No. 11, also withdrew before the tournament began.

"I am really disappointed to be withdrawing from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships," Kvitova said in a statement. "I spent my off-season in Dubai this year and was really looking forward to being back at a tournament where I have had some great results.

"After playing a lot of tennis in the past few weeks, and winning the title, my whole body is in much need of a rest. I can't wait to be back in Dubai next year and wish you all the best this week."

Even with a number of marquee players missing, the Dubai event still boasts six of the current top nine-ranked players in the women's game. Agencies