All 8 competing top 10 players progressed through the 1st round, most of them cruising past their opponents.
(Rank/Seed)
1/1 Williams was emphatic against former French Open champion Schiavone, winning 60 61. The Italian often extended Williams in the rallies but mostly was the first to err, whilst also hitting too many double faults. Not even a hug with a ball boy could salvage her hopes.
2/2 Azarenka crushed Pfizenmaier 60 60 in a deceptive match. The German had a total of 11 game points during the match against a below par Azarenka, but couldn't win any of the crucial mental battles.
4/3 Radwanska had a steady start, beating Spain's Soler Espinosa 61 62.
5/4 Errani was ruthless against Australian qualifier Rogowska, crushing her 60 60!
6/5 Li was in good form against Govortsova, beating the Belarusian 62 62.
8/6 Wozniacki out steadied the unpredictable Duan 62 75. The Chinese qualifier hit the ball early and flat and began to take advantage in the 2nd set, leading 3-0 and 5-3. However, the Dane was typically solid under pressure, saving a set point and taking advantage of her opponents many loose errors.
9/8 Kerber had a surprisingly easy 61 61 win over Czech Hradecka considering her recent poor form.
10/9 Kvitova was once again extended to 3 sets, this time against Japan's Doi, winning in windy conditions 62 36 61.
I must also add that the shock of the tournament thus far was the defeat of 2011 champion and recent Carlsbad winner (11/11) Stosur at the hands of 17 year old, American qualifier ranked 298, Victoria Duval. The teen recovered from 57 24 down to beat the Aussie 57 64 64 for the biggest win of her young career. It was Stosur's worst US Open result since 2008!
No comments:
Post a Comment