The German, who won the WTA International event for the second time on Sunday, has not been in the higher echelons of the women's game since 2011 when she achieved a career-high ranking of ninth.
Petkovic dominated the final against Shelby Rogers to secure a 6-3 6-3 triumph and a fourth career win.
And the world number 20 is eager to continue her upward trajectory.
"It's a super feeling, I am totally happy," she said. "I want [to get] back into the top 10 and I am just playing good tennis.
"Shelby played very aggressive tennis. I didn't know her game but I've done some research on YouTube.
"My serve and my footwork can still improve but I am playing well.
"I wanted this victory so badly. I am very relieved."
For Rogers it was an "incredible" week at the clay-court tournament as the American, ranked 147, beat three top-50 players on her way to contesting her first final.