Thursday 24 March 2011

American Hard Courts


Two weeks was Indian Wells, a major tournment on the American hard courts and was won by world number one Caroline Wozniaki, and Novak Djokovic- Novak has now won all his 18 matches this year, moved up to number two in the world, and I think it was a big deal to beat Rafa who has also lost some of his sparkle a la Federer.  Although he then lost to Nadal in an exhibition match (before which he apparently did a song and dance routine, will search for footage).  Wozniaki was no surprise as the Indian Wells winner either, but a good few wins for Safina and Sharapova were a pleasant surprise.  Sharapova is now back in the top 15 after struggling with a shoulder injury, and Safina back in the top 100 after a bad back injury. 

And Safina has won her first round match at the current Miami tournament (up against Zvonarava, who lost early in Indian Wells, but is still number three in the world and a tough match).  Also going well in Miami is British Elena Baltacha who won her first round match on Tuesday from 1-4 down in the third set and is now on serve in the first set of her second round match against  Zakopolova.  Anne Keothothong, however, lost in qualifying.   :(
Our Andy Murray lost his first round in Indian Wells, and hasn't won a singles round since losing in the Aussie Open final to the afore mentioned Djokovic (who seems to be telling everyone and anyone that he thinks Andy will win a grand slam one day, which is lovely and wouldn't be at all annoying and patronising).  Although he has won a few doubles matches with big bro Jamie. 


And everyones very upset about Japan (so am I before you start, but what's it got to do with tennis?), constantly mentioned by serious commentators and helped by foundraisers (much like the Ralley for Relief after the Australian floods, which at least happened during the Australian Open).  Well I'm sure all the Japanese people living in California were touched by a Danish girl holding a flag...