#FedCup Final page http://tennis.quickfound.net/wta_results_2014/sofia_results_2014.html photos, quotes, videos, Sat story... #WTA #tennis 55 2014 #WTA #Champion pics+the year's tourney final scores: http://tennis.quickfound.net/2014_wta_tour.html #WTAFinals tennis.quickfound.net #Brisbane Int'l #WTA #Prague W ace UE df BP pt W ace df BP pt http://t.co/DBTm0F2OaC ustream.tv/lpga #LPGA #USWomensOpen -2 Wie E SLewis +1 Meadow +3 MLee SYRyu AYang +4 Phatlum Yokomine Thompson +5 Matthew Shin Henderson http://t.co/Lu4gPw5 Prague:

#17 Lucie Safarova
5'9" 137lb LH 2H-BH Prague:

#10 Angelique Kerber
5' 8" 150lb LH 2H-BH Prague:

#4 Petra Kvitova
6'0" 154lb LH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Prague, in the third match of the 2015 Fed Cup finals, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated the 2013 Linz champion, 26 year old #10 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-4 (photos shown).

    The match win clinched victory for the Czechs over the Germans in the best of five, 3-0.

    In standard Fed Cup procedure when the outcome has already been decided, the 4th singles match was not played.

    The Czechs also won the Fed Cup in 2012 and 2011; it was Germany's first Fed Cup final in 22 years.

2015 Fed Cup World Group QFs (Feb 7-8): Czech Republic at Canada, Australia at Germany, France at Italy, Russia at Poland.

2015 Fed Cup World Group II (Feb 7-8): USA at Argentina, Slovakia at Netherlands, Spain at Romania, Switzerland at Sweden.

Sofia:

Andrea Petkovic, Flavia Pennetta, Tsvetana Pironkova, Kate Makarova, Garbi Muguruza, Domi Cibulkova, Carla Suarez Navarro & Alize Cornet Sofia:

#12 Dominika Cibulkova
5'3" 121lb RH 2H-BH Sofia:

#18 Carla Suarez Navarro
5' 4" 137lb RH 1H-BH Sofia:

#23 Garbine Muguruza
6' 0" 161lb RH 2H-BH Sofia:

#15 Flavia Pennetta
5'7¾" 128lb RH 2H-BH Sofia:

#17 Andrea Petkovic
5' 11" 152lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the final of the 2014 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 4th seeded #17 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated the 2014 champion at Indian Wells, 32 year old 3rd seeded #15 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland), 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 (Flavia is show during the match; Andrea is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    On court after the match, Andrea said: "I love watching Flavia play, but I hate playing her because she's so difficult to play! I'm happy could gather enough energy in the end and play well enough to win it in the end." WTA story

    Andrea now leads Flavia 3-2 in career matches. Their previous was earlier this year on red clay in the 1st round at Stuttgart, when Flavia defeated Petko 7-5, 3-6, 6-1.

    Andrea is now 5-5 in WTA singles finals. She has a 42-23 singles match record this season.

    Flavia is now 10-14 in WTA singles finals. Her 2014 singles match record is 33-20.

    On Saturday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the semifinals of the 2014 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 4th seeded #17 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old 7th seeded #23 (career high: #25) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    On court after the match, Andrea said: "I think I was playing really, really well up until 6-1, 5-2. I wasn't missing at all and I was feeling the ball really well until then. But then Garbi started playing a lot tougher and making fewer mistakes. She was hitting really well. I was lucky to win it in the end.

    "Players like that who are so aggressive and so talented, they just need one or two rallies to get back into the match. I was glad I could serve really well in the end of the match and close it out there." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Sofia, the 2014 champion at Indian Wells, 32 year old 3rd seeded #15 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland), defeated the 2014 Oeiras champ, 26 year old 5th seeded #18 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain, 6-4, 6-2 (Flavia is shown while defeating Karolina Pliskova on Friday).

    Flavia said: "It was really tough from the beginning. The first four or five games were so long and so tight today. We know each other really well so we know how to play each other, and we always have a good fight until the last point. I was just trying not to give her the same rhythm all the time. I knew I had to change it up, but also be aggressive when the right moments came. Sometimes I made mistakes, but it was the right way to play today." WTA story

    Andrea will play Flavia in the Tournament of Champions final on Sunday.

    Flavia and Andrea are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 1st round at Stuttgart, when Flavia defeated Petko 7-5, 3-6, 6-1.

    Flavia is 10-13 in previous WTA singles finals. Her 2014 singles match record is 33-19.

    Andrea is 4-5 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 41-23 singles match record this season.

    Flavia said: "The last time we played was on clay so this will be completely different. She plays much better on this surface and was really consistent and powerful today, so it will be tough."

    On Friday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the last day of round robin play of the 2014 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old 7th seeded #23 (career high: #25) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, defeated the 2014 champion at Katowice, 24 year old 6th seeded #20 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, 6-3, 7-5 (Garbine is shown at the Sofia player party on Sunday).

    The win put Garbine into the semifinals as winner of the Serdika Group with a 3-0 record. Flavia Pennetta finished second in the group.

    Garbine said: "The second set was really difficult because that was the moment I realized I could win. I was feeling the pressure. [Alize] was playing well too. But I just had to think and focus on my tactics, and try to win it there. I'm very happy how I played and very excited to make the semis... I'm really pleased to make the semifinals, because I didn't even know I was coming here until three days before in Singapore. For me to be here and to win three matches is very exciting for me." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Sofia, the 2014 Oeiras champ, 26 year old 5th seeded #18 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain, defeated the 2014 champion at Sydney (and a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist), 27 year old 8th seeded wild card #41 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 7-6(2), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Carla will play in the semifinals as winner of the Sredets Group with a 2-1 record. Andrea Petkovic finished second in the group. Carla, Andrea, and Dominika Cibulkova all finished 2-1 in matches and 4-2 in sets won, but Carla finished 1st and Andrea 2nd by virtue of percentage of games won in their three matches.

    Tsvetana failed to convert two set points while leading 6-5 in the 1st set. Carla said: "If I lost a set today I would be out, so if I missed on one of those set points I would have been out, so I was pretty nervous on the court today. She was playing very well in the first set, too. But I was just trying to do my best and I'm happy I could make it through."

    In the TOC semifinals on Saturday, Garbine will play the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 4th seeded #17 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany.

    Garbine and Andrea have met only once before, in 2012 on an indoor hardcourt in the 1st round at Luxembourg, when Petko defeated Garbi 4-6, 6-2, 6-1.

    In Saturday's other semifinal, Carla will play the 2014 champion at Indian Wells, 32 year old 3rd seeded #15 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland).

    Flavia leads Carla 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was four weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Beijing, when Carla defeated Flavia 6-1 3-6 6-2.

    On Thursday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the 3rd day of round robin play of the 2014 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 4th seeded #17 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated the 2014 Acapulco champ (and Australian Open finalist), 25 year old 2nd seeded #12 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "I thought I was playing really, really well today, and I thought Domi was playing really well too, especially in the first set. I'm very happy with my performance out there today." WTA story

    Andrea and Dominika are now tied at the top of the Sredets Group with a 2-1 record in the round robin. Andrea will finish first the group by virtue of defeating Dominika in their head-to-head—unless #18 Carla Suarez Navarro defeats #41 Tsvetana Pironkova on Friday. In that case a three way tie will result, which will be resolved by percentage of sets won, or, if still tied, by percentage of games won.

    At any rate, Andrea is guaranteed to finish at least second in the Sredets Group, by virtue of winning a higher percentage of her games than Dominika. So Andrea is the first player at the tourney to clinch a place in the semifinals.

    Also on Thursday at Sofia, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old 7th seeded #23 (career high: #25) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, defeated the 2014 champion at Indian Wells, 32 year old 3rd seeded #15 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland), 0-6, 6-1, 6-1 (Garbine is shown while defeating Ekaterina Makarova on Wednesday).

    The win put Garbine into first place in the Serdika Group with a 2-0 record.

    Garbine said: "I went to the court really nervous. In a round robin, every match is very important. I was utilizing the wrong strategy against Pennetta. I was thinking I needed to change something, and then my coach gave me some advice, and it worked." WTA story

    On Friday at Sofia, Garbine will play the 2014 champion at Katowice, 24 year old 6th seeded #20 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Garbine and Alize have met only once before, in 2012 on red clay in the semifinals at Bucharest, when Garbine defeated Alize 2-6, 6-2, 6-4.

    Top seed Ekaterina Makarova withdrew from Sofia on Thursday due to a back injury. Kate had injured her back in Singapore (playing doubles), and said the injury was getting worse as she played.

    On Wednesday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the 1st round of the 2014 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 4th seeded #17 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "It was a physical battle in the first set. The rallies were so long and I think we were playing one and a quarter hours. I was a little lucky to get the first set and after that it's tough to keep the intensity up, so I'm really happy I won in straight sets." WTA story

    On Thursday at Sofia, Petko will play the 2014 Acapulco champ (and Australian Open finalist), 25 year old 2nd seeded #12 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia.

    Dominika is at the top of the Sredets Group with a 2-0 record in the round robin after defeating 5th seeded #18 Carla Suarez Navarro 7-5, 6-4 on Wednesday. Andrea and Carla were both 1-1 in the round robin after Wednesday's play.

    Petko leads Domi 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at New Haven, when Andrea defeated Dominika 7-6(2), 6-3.

    Andrea said: "I played her twice this year already. Super tough matches. They were both close and I could have lost easily. She has such great intensity and is such a fighter, so it's definitely going to be a tough match."

    Also on Wednesday at Sofia, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old 7th seeded #23 (career high: #25) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, defeated the 2010 Eastbourne champ, 26 year old top seeded #11 (career high: #11) Ekaterina Makarova from Moscow, Russia, 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    On Tuesday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the 1st round of the 2014 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2014 Acapulco champ (and Australian Open finalist), 25 year old 2nd seeded #11 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated the 2014 champion at Sydney (and a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist), 27 year old 8th seeded wild card #41 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 6-3, 7-6(6) (Domi is shown at the Sofia players' party on Sunday).

    Domi said: "I played pretty well today, so I am happy with my game. I felt comfortable with my tactics, and when I use the right tactics, I play well. The tie-break was very close in the end, but I managed to cross the finish line.

    "Everyone who is here is a good player, so I just have to keep doing the right thing to keep winning." WTA story

    Also on Tuesday at Sofia, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (Flavia is shown arriving at the Sofia players' party on Sunday).

    Flavia said: "I felt like I was in a zone today. I was really focused and consistent, and I am very pleased with the way I played. I'm very much looking forward to my next match on Thursday." WTA story

Singapore:

#4 Maria Sharapova
6'2" 130lb RH 2H-BH Singapore:

#8 Ana Ivanovic
6'1" 152lb RH 2H-BH Singapore:

#6 Agnieszka Radwanska
5'7" 139lb RH 2H-BH Singapore:

#9 Caroline Wozniacki
5' 10" 139lb RH 2H-BH Singapore:

#3 Simona Halep
5'6" 141lb RH 2H-BH Singapore:

#1 Serena Williams
5'9" 150lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Singapore, in the semifinals of the WTA Finals, the 2014 champion at Flushing Meadows, Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 33 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), 2-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I have to say Caroline played a great match. It was really difficult today. I felt really bad because she's so amazing and so nice, and she was the only player who hadn't lost in this tournament yet, so she really deserved to win." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Doha & Bucharest (and French Open finalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "I knew I had to finish hitting inside the baseline today. I knew I had to run a lot against her and I knew [Agnieszka] would run a lot too, so I wanted to play very fast and finish the points quickly. Even my serve helped me a lot today. I served very well. Everything just went very well for me today." WTA story

    Agnieszka said: "[Simona] was very solid from the beginning. She made no mistakes, everything was coming back, she was hitting the lines, everything was deep, and she was serving very well too."

    Simona will play Serena in the Singapore final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Simona 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was just three days ago on the same Deco-Turf-over-wood indoor hardcourt in the round robin at Singapore, when Simona demolished Serena 6-0, 6-2.

    2013, 2012, 2009, & 2001 WTA Championships titleist Serena is 63-17 in previous WTA singles finals. Her 2014 singles match record is 51-8.

    Simona is 8-5 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 46-15 singles match record this year.

    Serena said: "I'm excited. My goal is to win three games. That'll be my first goal. I'm just going to go from there. Hopefully I can hold serve. That would be good. Most of all, I hope to break once. So I'm starting out with low goals. And then I'm going to go from there...
    "[Simona] just played really, really well in that match. Even she said she played really well. I'm just going to do the best that I can do and we'll see what happens."

    Simona said: "I didn't expect this result here, but I tried every day to do my hard work, to work very hard and to play my best tennis here this week, and I think I'm doing that. I'm very excited to be in the final."

    On Friday afternoon at Singapore, in the last day of round robin play in the WTA Finals, the 2014 champion at Beijing, Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, 7-5, 6(4)-7, 6-2 (Agnieszka is shown during the match).

    Although she won the match, by losing the 2nd set Maria was eliminated from any chance of reaching the semifinals. Aga, due losing the match, could only reach the semis if her friend Caroline Wozniacki would defeat Petra Kvitiova in straight sets.

    Maria said: "I actually just wanted to go out on the court today and I wanted to get a victory. I treat every match as if I'm going to be out in the next match, because that's how we play on a weekly basis. We're not always playing in a round robin format." WTA story

    Also on Friday afternoon at Singapore, the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), will play the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Caroline's win gave her a first place finish in the White Group, undefeated at 3-0. Petra's defeat gave Aga Radwanska 2nd place in the White Group, by virtue of having won a higher percentage of sets during the round robin than Petra or Maria.

    Caroline said: "I believe in myself and believe in my skills. I've been playing well, so I believed I could beat anyone here. I obviously also knew that if I wasn't playing up to my best, I could lose to all of them. But I'm really pleased about the way this week has gone so far." WTA story

    At Twitter, @CaroWozniacki revealed she expected to be rewarded by @ARadwanska — Caro tweeted: "I hope you have a high limit on your card, I have expensive taste!"

    On Friday evening at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Tokyo, Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey, 26 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, 7-6(7), 3-6, 6-3.

    Simona had already clinched a place in the semifinals. By winning the 2nd set, Simona gave Serena Williams 2nd place in the Red Group with a higher % of sets won than Ana.

    In the Singapore semifinals on Saturday, Serena Williams will play Caroline Wozniacki and Simona Halep will play Agnieszka Radwanska.

    On Thursday at Singapore, in the fourth day of round robin play in the WTA Finals, the 2014 champion at Flushing Meadows, Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 33 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena had been trounced by Simona Halep on Wednesday, 6-0, 6-2. Serena said: "Yesterday was tough for me but I had to put that behind me. My coach really helped me do that and just focus on today, and focus on the fact that I'm still in the tournament." WTA story

    Also on Thursday at Singapore, the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, 7-5, 6-3.

    Aga led 3-0 in the 1st set. Caroline said: "I knew from the start this wasn't going to be an easy match, it was going to be a match with a lot of long rallies and some incredible shotmaking." WTA story

    And also on Thursday at Singapore, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated the 2014 champion at Beijing, Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "After the first loss here, I didn't really feel well and I'm just glad to win my second match and still have a chance of being in the semifinals." WTA story

    Simona Halep is now guaranteed a place in the semifinals. Serena Williams will be the second semifinalst from the Red Group unless Ana Ivanovic defeats Simona Halep in straight sets on Friday. In that case second place in the Red Group will determined by whether Serena or Ana has a higher percentage of games won.

    Caroline Wozniacki leads the White Group, but has not yet clinched a semifinal spot. Friday's matches could result in a three-way Wozniacki-Radwanska-Kvitova tie, to be resolved by sets won, or, if need be, games won.

    On Thursday at Singapore, in the fourth day of round robin play in the WTA Finals, the 2014 champion at Flushing Meadows, Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 33 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena had been trounced by Simona Halep on Wednesday, 6-0, 6-2. Serena said: "Yesterday was tough for me but I had to put that behind me. My coach really helped me do that and just focus on today, and focus on the fact that I'm still in the tournament." WTA story

    Also on Thursday at Singapore, the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, 7-5, 6-3.

    Aga led 3-0 in the 1st set. Caroline said: "I knew from the start this wasn't going to be an easy match, it was going to be a match with a lot of long rallies and some incredible shotmaking." WTA story

    And also on Thursday at Singapore, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated the 2014 champion at Beijing, Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "After the first loss here, I didn't really feel well and I'm just glad to win my second match and still have a chance of being in the semifinals." WTA story

    Simona Halep is now guaranteed a place in the semifinals. Serena Williams will be the second semifinalst from the Red Group unless Ana Ivanovic defeats Simona Halep in straight sets on Friday. In that case second place in the Red Group will determined by whether Serena or Ana has a higher percentage of games won.

    Caroline Wozniacki leads the White Group, but has not yet clinched a semifinal spot. Friday's matches could result in a three-way Wozniacki-Radwanska-Kvitova tie, to be resolved by sets won, or, if need be, games won.

    On Friday afternoon at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Beijing, Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Maria leads Agnieszka 10-2 in career matches, and Maria has won their last three encounters. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the semifinals at Madrid, when Maria defeated Aga 6-1, 6-4.

    Also on Friday afternoon at Singapore, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, will play the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Caroline and Petra are tied at 4-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Cincinnati, when Caro defeated Petra 3-6, 6-2, 6-3.

    On Friday evening at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, will play the 2014 champion at Tokyo, Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey, 26 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Simona leads Ana 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Madrid, when Simona defeated Ana 6-2, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Singapore, in the third day of round robin play in the WTA Finals, the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated the 2014 champion at Flushing Meadows, Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 33 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Simona had been 0-8 against players ranked in the top 3. Simona said: "It's the biggest match in my life, so I can't put into words how I feel right now. I feel very happy! I just want to enjoy it... I don't think it was [Serena's] best day today, but I played really well, I was very aggressive and took the ball early, moved up the court very well, served very well. I've found my best tennis again." WTA story

    Serena said: "I played the tournament when it was an elimination. This format is fun because you can lose and keep winning. But I'm in a situation where I'm going to have to win my matches because I didn't win many games today at all."

    Also on Wednesday at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Tokyo, Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey, 26 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I'd lost to [Genie] twice before, so today I tried to be aggressive and step in. I did this well and I'm really pleased with how I played." WTA story

    Simona Halep is now alone atop the Red Group at 2-0. Ana's win put her even with Serena Williams in the Red Group at 1-1 in matches, and 2-2 in sets won-lost. But Serena has the advantage becuause she defeated Ana in their match on Monday.

    Serena Williams will play Genie Bouchard on Thursday evening at Singapore. They have met only once before, last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Cincinnati, when Serena defeated Genie 4-6, 6-2, 6-2.

    On Thursday afternoon at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Beijing, Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), will play the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Maria leads Petra 6-2 in career matches, and Maria has won their last five encounters. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at Beijing, when Maria defeated Petra 6-4, 2-6, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday afternoon at Singapore, the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, will play the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Caroline leads Agnieszka 6-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Cincinnati, when Caro defeated Aga 6-4, 7-6(5).

    On Tuesday at Singapore, in the second day of round robin play in the WTA Finals, the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated the 2014 champion at Beijing, Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), 7-6(4), 6(5)-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    The match lasted three hours and thirteen minutes. Still on court, Caroline said "I'm feeling a little tired! But it was a great match. The first one is always tough, getting your rhythm and getting used to everything out there, but in the third set I felt like I really stepped it up and really started being aggressive and going for my shots more." WTA story

    In a postmatch interview, Maria said: "I felt like I had my opportunities in the 1st set... in the 3rd set I made a little too many errors, more than [Caroline] did. She was the consistent player out there."

    Also on Tuesday at Singapore, the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "I'm really happy with that win. There's only eight of us here, so you have to go out and try your best, otherwise you're not going to win. And I'm very happy with the way I played tonight."

    On Wednesday at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Flushing Meadows, Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 33 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, will play the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Serena leads Simona 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Cincinnati, when Serena defeated Simona 6-0, 6-4.

    Also on Wednesday at Singapore, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, will play the 2014 champion at Tokyo, Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey, 26 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Genie leads Ana 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, when Genie defeated Ana 5-7, 7-5,, 6-2.

    On Monday at Singapore, in the first day of round robin play in the WTA Finals, the 2014 champion at Flushing Meadows, Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 33 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated the 2014 champion at Tokyo, Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey, 26 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "Ana is a very aggressive returner, and I went really hard at my second serve. Didn't push them. Playing against her she'll hit winners, so I had to go for a lot." SI story

    Ana said "She served really well today, I thought, and created more pressure on my service game. I didn't feel my rhythm, so I was trying to make more first serves. In the second set I did that, but against Serena sometimes that's not good enough, and it wasn't good enough today."

    Also on Monday at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "I think today I had complete game, and just want to hit the balls very hard, to open the angles, and to play with good length. So I did. I served very well today. I'm really happy with my game."

    On Tuesday at Singapore, the 2014 champion at Beijing, Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), will play the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Maria leads Caroline 5-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 4th round of the US Open, when Caroline defeated Maria 6-4, 2-6, 6-2.

    Also on Tuesday at Singapore, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Petra leads Agnieszka 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Petra defeated Agnieszka 6-4, 6-4.

Melbourne (file, January 15):

#45 Monica Niculescu
5'6" 139lb RH 2H-BH Wimbledon (file, June 28):

#21 Alizé Cornet
5' 8" 132lb RH 2H-BH Flushing Meadows (file, June 28):

#104 Aleksandra Krunic
5'4" 117lb RH 2H-BH Moscow:

#81 Kristina Mladenovic right
6' 1" 160lb RH 2H-BH Moscow:

#44 Tsvetana Pironkova
5'11" 143lb RH 2H-BH Moscow (file, October 23, 2011):

#138 Vitalia Diatchenko
5' 11" 132lb RH 2H-BH Moscow:

#61 Irina-Camelia Begu
5'11" 148lb RH 2H-BH Moscow:

#29 Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova
5'10" 159lb RH 2H-BH Luxembourg:

#58 Annika Beck
5'7" 130lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Moscow, in the final of the Kremlin Cup,, a local resident, the 2014 Paris indoor champion, 23 year old 6th seeded #29 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia, defeated the 2012 Tashkent champion, 24 year old #61 (career high #38) Irina-Camelia Begu from Bucharest, Romania, 6-5, 5-7, 6-1 (Anastasia is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Anastasia's prize is $120,000; Irina's prize is $64,000.

    Anastasia and Irina had met only once before, in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Seoul, when Anastasia defeated Irina 6-2, 6-2.

    Anastasia is now 7-3 in WTA singles finals. She has a 26-20 singles match record in 2014.

    Irina is now 1-3 in WTA singles finals. Her singles match record this year is 50-21.

    On Saturday at Luxembourg, in the final of the BNP Paribas Open, the 2012 Roland Garros juniors champion, 20 year old #58 (career high: #43) Annika Beck from Giessen, Germany, won her first WTA singles title by defeating the 2011 champ at Quebec City, 28 year old 4th seeded #28 (career high: #28) Barbora Zahlavova Strycova from Pilzen, Czech Republic.
6-2, 6-1 (Annika is also shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Annika's prize is $43,000; Barbora's prize is $21,400.

    Barbora and Annika had met only once before, in 2012 on the same indoor hardcourts in the 1st round at Luxembourg, when Annika defeated Barbora 5-7, 7-6(2), 6-2.

    Annika was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 32-28 singles match record this year.

    Barbora is now 1-4 in WTA singles finals. Her singles match record this season is 37-27.

    On Friday at Moscow, in the quarterfinals of the Kremlin Cup,, the 2013 Quebec City champ, 27 year old 4th seeded #17 (career high: #14) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic, defeated the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 29 year old 5th seeded #26 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The win evened Lucie's record against Svetlana at 4-4. Lucie said: "When we were walking on court I was remember when [Svetlana] beat me in Fed Cup here, but there was a huge will for me to change that memory, and I think we played a really good match...
    "I'm feeling good here. I really like playing indoors. I've played well in my first two matches here and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I hope I can keep improving my play with every match here." WTA story

    In the Moscow semifinals on Saturday, Lucie will play 24 year old #61 (career high #38) Irina-Camelia Begu from Bucharest, Romania.

    Lucie and Irina have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Meanwhile at Luxembourg, in the semfinals of the BNP Paribas Open, the 2012 Roland Garros juniors champion, 20 year old #58 (career high: #43) Annika Beck from Giessen, Germany, defeated qualifier #142 Denisa Allertova of the Czech Republic, 6-0, 6-1 (Annika is shown during her 1st round win on Tuesday).

    In the Luxembourg final on Saturday, Annika will play the 2011 champ at Quebec City, 28 year old 4th seeded #28 (career high: #28) Barbora Zahlavova Strycova from Pilzen, Czech Republic.

    Barbora and Annika have met only once before, in 2012 on the same indoor hardcourts in the 1st round at Luxembourg, when Annika defeated Barbora 5-7, 7-6(2), 6-2.

    Barbora is 1-3 in previous WTA singles finals. Her singles match record this season is 37-26.

    Annika is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 31-28 singles match record this year.

    On Thursday at Moscow, in the 2nd round of the Kremlin Cup,, a local resident, 24 year old qualifier #138 (career high: #105) Vitalia Diatchenko of Russia, defeated 4-6, 6-2, 6-2 (Vitalia is shown with Anastasia Pivovarova after suffering a knee injury at Moscow in 2011).

    At the Kremlin Cup in 2011, Vitalia and Elena Vesnina were leading Vania King and Yaroslava Shvedova 6-4, 4-2 in the doubles semifinals when Vitalia badly injured her right knee. Vitalia had knee surgery, and did not return to play for many months. After she resumed her career, progress was slow until now.

    Today's victory was Vitalia's first win over a top 50 player, and placed her in her first WTA singles quarterfinal.

    In the Moscow quarterfinals on Friday, Vitalia will play
    Vitalia and Anastasia have met only once before, in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at Dubai, when Anastasia defeated Vitalia 6-4, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at Moscow, defeated 21 year old wild card #104 (career high: #100) Aleksandra Krunic from Belgrade, Serbia, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the Moscow quarterfinals on Friday, Tsvetana will play 24 year old #61 (career high #38) Irina-Camelia Begu from Bucharest, Romania.

    Tsvetana leads Irina-Camelia 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round at 's-Hertogenbosch, when Tsveti defeated Irina 7-6(7), 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Moscow, in the 2nd round of the Kremlin Cup,, defeated 21 year old #69 (career high: #55) Ajla Tomljanovic of Croatia (residence: Boca Raton, Florida), 7-6(4), 6-2 (Lucie is shown while defeating Madison Keys in the 1st round at Tokyo last month).

    Lucie said: "It was a good match for me. I was serving really well in both sets. It was a really close set in the first set—the tie-break too—and I'm really happy I got through my first [match after a 1st round bye]." WTA story

    In the Moscow quarterfinals on Friday, Lucie will play
    Svetlana leads Lucie 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 4th round at Roland Garros, when Svetlana defeated Lucie 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Wednesday at Moscow, in a 1st round match, 21 year old #81 (career high: #37) Kristina Mladenovic of France (residence: Saint Pol sur Mer, SUI), defeated the 2014 champion at Linz and Seoul, 22 year old 7th seeded #30 (last week; this week at a new career high: #27) Karolina Pliskova from Louny, Czech Republic, 6-3, 7-5 (Kristina is shown at the Moscow player party on Tuesday night with Galina Voskoboeva).

    In the Moscow 2nd round on Thursday, Kristina will play 18 year old qualfier #118 Katerina Siniakova from Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.

    Kristina and Katerina have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Tuesday at Luxembourg, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated the 2009 Strasbourg finalist, 29 year old #154 (career high: #48) Lucie Hradecka from Prague, Czech Republic, 6-2, 7-6(6) (Alize is shown while defeating Serena Williams in the 3rd round at Wimbledon this year).

    Alize said: "I had a good first set; it was a bit more complicated in the second set. I got a bit tired, and Lucie started playing better, so finally at the end I missed three or four match points at 5-4, and she had set points herself, so I'm really glad I could pull it off in straight sets.

    "I was playing point after point, trying to think positively and think about the present. That was really important because she was showing some amazing stuff out there. It was just about fighting and trying to be through in two sets. I was feeling tired, so a third set would have been tough for me.

    "It's my first indoor tournament, so nothing was working 100% today. It was just about fighting." WTA story

    In the Luxembourg 2nd round, Alize will play the 2012 champion at Fès, 22 year old #74 Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands.

    Alize and Kiki have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Alize defeated Kiki 7-5, 7-6(8).

    Meanwhile at Moscow, in the 1st round of the Kremlin Cup, defeated 20 year old 8th seeded #34 (career high: #34) Caroline Garcia from Lyon, France, 6-4, 6-2 (Aleksandra is shown while defeating Petra Kvitova in the 3rd round of this year's US Open).

    In the Moscow 2nd round, Aleksandra will play
    Tsvetana and Aleksandra have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Monday at Moscow, in the 1st round of the Kremlin Cup, the 2014 champion at Sydney (and a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist), 27 year old #44 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, defeated 19 year old #102 (career high: #101) Danka Kovinic of Montenegro, 6-2, 6-2 (Tsveti is shown while defeating Angelique Kerber in the final of this year's Sydney International).

    In the Moscow 2nd round, Tsvetana will play the winner of Tuesday's match between 20 year old #49 (career high: #34) Caroline Garcia from Lyon, France, and 21 year old wild card #104 (career high: #100) Aleksandra Krunic from Belgrade, Serbia.

    Meanwhile at Luxembourg, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Open, the 2014 champ at Guangzhou, 27 year old 8th seeded #45 (career high: #28) Monica Niculescu from Bucharest, Romania, defeated 18 year old wild card #470 (career high: #354) Antonia Lottner of Germany, by the same score, 6-2, 6-2 (Monica is shown while defeating Sabine Lisicki in the 2nd round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the Luxembourg 2nd round, Monica will play the 2012 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 24 year old #47 (career high: #23) Mona Barthel from Neumunster, Germany.

    Monica and Mona are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round at Hobart, Tasmania, when Monica defeated Mona 7-6(5), 6-1.

Osaka:

#265 Naomi Osaka
5' 11" 152lb RH 2H-BH Osaka:

#91 Misaki Doi
5'3" 121lb LH 2H-BH Osaka:

#32 Madison Keys
5' 10" 145lb RH 2H-BH Linz:

#7 Eugenie Bouchard
5' 10" 134lb RH 2H-BH Guangzhou (file, Sept 15):

#159 Su-Wei Hsieh
5'7" 126lb RH 2H-BH Osaka:

#39 Zarina Diyas
5' 8" 141lb RH 2H-BH Linz:

#42 Camila Giorgi
5'6" 119lb RH 2H-BH Osaka:

#21 Samantha Stosur
5' 7¾" 143lb RH 2H-BH Linz:

#29 Karolina Pliskova
6'1" 159lb RH 2H-BH Tianjin:

#60 Alison Riske
5' 9" 145lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Linz, Austria, in the final of the Generali Ladies, defeated the 2014 finalist at Katowice, 20 year old #42 (career high: #37) Camila Giorgi of Italy (residence: France), 6(4)-7, 6-3, 7-6(4) (photo shown).

    Karolina's prize is $43,000; Camila's prize is $21,400.

    Karolina and Camila had met only once before, earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at Dubai, when Karolina defeated Camila 7-5, 6-2.

    Karolina is now 3-3 in WTA singles finals. Her 2014 singles match record is 54-27.

    Camila is now 0-2 in WTA singles finals. She has a 31-23 singles match record this year.

    Meanwhile at Osaka, Japan, in the final of the Japan Women's Open, the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad (and the 2011 US Open champion), 30 year old top seeded #21 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated 20 year old 5th seeded #39 (career high: #37) Zarina Diyas from Almaty, Kazakhstan, 7-6(7), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Samantha's prize is $43,000; Zarina's prize is $21,400.

    Samantha said: "It's great to win a title... Zarina's quite a good player... and I really had to play some good tennis to beat her today." WTA story

    Samantha and Zarina had never before met on the field of combat.

    Samantha is now 6-14 in previous WTA singles finals, three of her six titles have been won at Osaka. She has a 33-24 singles match record in 2014.

    Zarina was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 42-22 singles match record this season.

    On Sunday at Tianjin, China, in the final of the Tianjin Open, 24 year old 6th seeded #60 (career high: #43) Alison Riske from Hilton Head, South Carolina, defeated 17 year old 3rd seeded #34 (career high: #33) Belinda Bencic from Flawil, Switzerland, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Alison's prize is $43,000; Belinda's prize is $21,400.

    Alison said: "It's a huge accomplishment for me to win my first WTA title. And I was here by myself, which made it even more special, just to know that I was able to do it by myself." WTA story

    Belinda and Alison were also meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    Alison was playing in her first WTA singles final. Her singles match record this year is 23-23.

    Belinda was also playing in her first WTA singles final. Her 2014 singles match record is 40-19.

    On Saturday at Linz, Austria, in the semifinals of the Generali Ladies, the 2014 finalist at Katowice, 20 year old #42 (career high: #37) Camila Giorgi of Italy (residence: France), defeated the 2014 champion at Tashkent, 27 year old #58 (career high: #35) Karin Knapp from Lutago, Italy, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Camila had lost four straight matches prior to Linz. Camila said: "The last few weeks weren't very good, but now I'm getting the momentum back. In the final, I'm going to focus on my game and try to dictate. I will prepare like any other match." WTA story

    In the Linz final on Sunday, Camila will play the 2014 Seoul champion, 22 year old 7th seeded #29 (career high: #29) Karolina Pliskova from Louny, Czech Republic.

    Karolina and Camila have met only once before, earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at Dubai, when Karolina defeated Camila 7-5, 6-2.

    Karolina is 2-3 in previous WTA singles finals. Her 2014 singles match record is 53-27.

    Camila is 0-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 31-22 singles match record this year.

    Meanwhile at Osaka, Japan, in the semifinals of the Japan Women's Open, the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad (and the 2011 US Open champion), 30 year old top seeded #21 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated the 2014 (and 2013) Baku champion, 20 year old 3rd seeded #33 (career high #33) Elina Svitolina from Kharkiv, Ukraine, 7-6(6), 6-2 (Samantha is shown while alerting the media after the match).

    Samantha said: "I have to use my experience, and maybe everything I've learnt over the years, to beat these younger players. When I was in that position playing the older players, I'd feel I had nothing to lose. Your ranking's not as good, you're younger, you're not expected to win, so you go out there and really go for it. If you win that's fantastic, and if you lose you weren't expected to win anyway.
    "Now I have to make sure I'm playing my best tennis against anyone. Everyone's got the ability to beat anyone. You can't take anything for granted, even when your opponent is 20 or 21 years old." WTA story

    In the Osaka final on Sunday, Samantha will play 20 year old 5th seeded #39 (career high: #37) Zarina Diyas from Almaty, Kazakhstan.

    Samantha and Zarina have never before met on the field of combat.

    Samantha is 5-14 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 32-24 singles match record in 2014.

    Zarina is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 42-21 singles match record this season.

    On Sunday at Tianjin, China, in the final of the Tianjin Open, 17 year old 3rd seeded #34 (career high: #33) Belinda Bencic from Flawil, Switzerland, will play 24 year old 6th seeded #60 (career high: #43) Alison Riske from Hilton Head, South Carolina.

    Belinda and Alison will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    Belinda is playing in her first WTA singles final. Her 2014 singles match record is 40-18.

    Alison is also playing in her first WTA singles final. Her singles match record this year is 22-23.

    On Friday at Linz, Austria, in the quarterfinals of the Generali Ladies, the 2014 finalist at Katowice, 20 year old #42 (career high: #37) Camila Giorgi of Italy (residence: France), defeated the 2013 champion at Memphis, 26 year old #87 (career high: #49) Marina Erakovic from Auckland, New Zealand, 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the Linz semifinals on Saturday, Camila will play the 2014 champion at Tashkent, 27 year old #58 (career high: #35) Karin Knapp from Lutago, Italy.

    Camila and Karin have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Meanwhile at Osaka, Japan, in the quarterfinals of the Japan Women's Open, 20 year old 5th seeded #39 (career high: #37) Zarina Diyas from Almaty, Kazakhstan, defeated 16 year old #113 (career high: #107) Ana Konjuh from Zagreb, Croatia, 6(4)-7, 6-4, 6-2 (Zarina is shown offcourt in Osaka).

    In the Osaka semifinals on Saturday, Zarina will play 21 year old #96 (career high: #87) Luksika Kumkhum of Thailand.

    Luksika leads Zarina 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at Guangzhou, when Luksika defeated Zarina 6-3, 6-1.

    On Thursday at Osaka, Japan, in the 2nd round of the Japan Women's Open, defeated the 2010 champion at Guangzhou, 27 year old #68 (career high: #25) Jarmila Gajdosova from Melbourne, Australia, 7-6(4), 1-0 retired when Jarmila could not continue due to a left ankle sprain (Samantha is shown after her 1st round win on Tuesday).

    In the Osaka quarterfinals on Friday, Samantha will play 18 year old #121 (career high: #88) Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan (residence: Moscow, Russia).

    Samantha and Yulia have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile at Tianjin, China, in the 2nd round of the Tianjin Open, the 2012 Kuala Lumpur & Guangzhou champ, 28 year old #159 (career high: #23) Su-Wei Hsieh from Taipei, Taiwan, defeated the 2013 champion at Guangzhou, 25 year old #49 (career high: #30) Shuai Zhang from Tianjin, China, 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(5) (Su-Wei is shown at the Guangzhou player's party on September 15).

    In the Tianjin quarterfinals on Friday, Su-Wei will play
    Su-Wei and Belinda will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Wednesday at Linz, Austria, in the 1st round of the Generali Ladies, defeated 27 year old wild card #103 (career high: #70) Patricia Mayr-Achleitner from Seefeld in Tirol, Austria, 6-4, 6-1 (Genie is shown at the Linz player's party, which had a ballerina theme, on Monday evening).

    In the Linz 2nd round on Thursday, Genie will play
    Genie leads Tsveti 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at Dubai, when Genie defeated Tsvetana 6-2, 6-4.

    Meanwhile at Osaka, Japan, in the 2nd round of the Japan Women's Open, 19 year old 2nd seeded #32 (career high: #27) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida.
defeated 23 year old #91 (career high: #75) Misaki Doi from Chiba, Japan, 6-0, 6-4 (Madison and Misaki are shown after match point).

    In the Osaka quarterfinals on Friday, Madison will play
    Madison and Luksika have met only once before, in 2013 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in qualifying at Auckland, when Luksika defeated Madison 6-4, 6-3.

    On Tuesday at Linz, Austria, in the 1st round of the Generali Ladies, defeated the 2008 champ at Bad Gastein, 28 year old #79 (career high: #40) Pauline Parmentier from Paris, France, 6-3, 6-2 (Ana is shown dressed for the Linz player's party, which had a ballerina theme, on Monday evening).

    Ana took a medical time out for a left hip injury at 1-2 in the 2nd set. After the MTO, she won the last five games of the match.

    Ana said: "It was a very good match for me. I played well. I'm really happy to be back in Linz." WTA story

    In the Linz 2nd round on Thursday, Ana was to play 24 year old qualifier #98 Madison Brengle from Dover, Delaware.

    Unfortunately Ana withdrew from the tourney late on Tuesday evening, not wanting to risk worsening her injury before the WTA Finals.

    Meanwhile at Osaka, Japan, in the 1st round of the Japan Women's Open, 23 year old #91 (career high: #75) Misaki Doi from Chiba, Japan, defeated qualifier #242 Ana Bogdan of Romania 6(4)-7, 6-2, 6-2 (Misaki is shown after match point).

    In the Osaka 2nd round on Wednesday, Misaki will play 19 year old 2nd seeded #32 (career high: #27) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida.

    Madison leads Misaki 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Madison defeated Misaki 6-3, 6-2.

    On Monday at Osaka, Japan, in the 1st round of the Japan Women's Open, a local resident, 16 year old wild card #265 (career high #265) Naomi Osaka of Japan, defeated 25 year old #248 (career high: #114) Erika Sema from Tokyo, Japan, 6-1, 4-6, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the Osaka 2nd round, Naomi will play
    Naomi and Elina have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Monday at Osaka, 19 year old 2nd seeded #32 (career high: #27) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida, defeated 19 year old qualifier #196 (career high: #178) Sachia Vickery from Hollywood, FL, 6-3, 6-3 (Madison is shown while defeating Heather Watson in the semifinals at Eastbourne this year).

    In the Osaka 2nd round, Madison will play the winner of Tuesday's match between 23 year old #91 (career high: #75) Misaki Doi from Chiba, Japan, and qualifier #242 Ana Bogdan of Romania.

Beijing:

#26 Sabine Lisicki
5' 10" 154lb RH 2H-BH Beijing:

#18 Venus Williams
6' 1" 160lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Beijing, in the final of the China Open, defeated 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria's prize is $918,000; Petra's prize is $459,633.

    The win will move Maria back up to #2 in next week's WTA singles rankings.

    Maria said: "It was a bit of an up-and-down match I'd say - maybe not the best out of the tournament," Sharapova said in her press conference. "But it's never easy playing against Petra. You don't always quite get a good rhythm. She goes for a lot of shots, very deep, and she's a very good, confident player.

    "I knew she'd been on a roll in the last couple of weeks. It's probably the toughest opponent you can face in a final, that's had that success, yet you just want to focus on your side, what you do best.

    "She became the more aggressive player in the second set. I think I took a few too many steps back and let her play that way. But I was able to lift my game again in the third and come out with a win." WTA story

    Petra said: "What I did today was a great battle. It was small things and small points that made the difference in the end. I had some chances, but Maria just didn't let them go. She just played really well."

    Maria now leads Petra 6-2 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Miami, when Maria defeated Petra 7-5, 6-1.

    2012 Beijing finalist Maria is now 33-22 in WTA singles finals. She has a 48-11 singles match record this season.

    Petra is now 14-5 in WTA singles finals. She has a 41-14 singles match record in 2014.

    On Saturday at Beijing, in the semifinals of the China Open, the 2014 champion at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 4th seeded #4 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-0, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I thought I executed quite well with the plan that I had in mind from the beginning of the match. I felt that I was really the one kind of going for it, just making [Ana] move. Sometimes the rallies I lost were when she was on the run. I was all right with those. I'd rather lose those types of rallies than if she's pushing me back and hitting winners. It definitely got tricky in the end, but I was happy to get through today." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Beijing, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "It was really up and down. In the second set she was the better player on the court. I'm just glad I could win it in the third. I knew how Samantha can play really well, and she played a really amazing second set. I was a little bit worried in the third set, like if she continued playing that way, it could have been a pretty quick one. But I had some chances and I did it. In the end I served well, and that was important." WTA story

    Maria will play Petra in the Beijing final on Sunday. Maria leads Petra 5-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Miami, when Maria defeated Petra 7-5, 6-1.

    Petra is 14-4 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 41-13 singles match record in 2014.

    2012 Beijing finalist Maria is 32-22 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 47-11 singles match record this season.

    On Friday at Beijing, in the quarterfinals of the China Open, the 2014 champion at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 4th seeded #4 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-0, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I think I played very aggressively. I controlled most of the points. I didn't allow her to get many balls back. It became a little bit trickier in the second set. I thought she played really great defense. But even if I was down a break, I felt like she was doing most of the running, and I was happy to win the match in two sets." WTA story

    In the Beijing semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play the 2014 champ at Tokyo, Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 9th seeded #10 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Maria leads Ana 8-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Cincinnati, when Ana defeated Maria 6-2, 5-7, 7-5.

    Also on Friday at Beijing, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated the 2013 Katowice and Palermo champion, 31 year old #45 (career high: #13) Roberta Vinci from Taranto, Italy, 7-6(2), 6-4 (Petra is shown during her 2nd round win on Wednesday).

    Roberta had a 5-1 lead in the 1st set. Petra said: "From the beginning I was there, though. I was trying to play aggressively. Actually, I don't know what I was trying in the beginning of the match! But she just played really well. She was going forward, she didn't have a lot of mistakes. I just had to be patient and eventually come back in the match." WTA story

    In the Beijing semifinals on Saturday, Petra will play the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad (and the 2011 US Open champion), 30 year old #20 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia.

    Petra leads Samantha 6-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at New Haven, when Petra defeated Samantha 6-3, 6-1.

    On Thursday at Beijing, in the 3rd round of the China Open, defeated 7-6(4), 5-7, 7-6(1) (photo shown).

    After the win, Simona withdrew from the tourney due to injury. Simona said: "It was a tough match against Andrea today, and I had to fight a lot. I'm happy I was able to win and finish the match in the right way, but I have a hip injury and it would be risky for me to play again tomorrow." AP story

    Simona's withdrawal gave a walkover to Saturday's semifinals, when she will play either #4 Maria Sharapova or #25 Svetlana Kuznetsova.

    Also on Thursday at Beijing,     On Wednesday at Beijing, in the 3rd round of the China Open, the 2014 champion at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 4th seeded #4 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-1, 7-6(3) (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I started off the match really well, which is something I didn't do when I lost to [Carla] in Montreal She was the more aggressive then and today from the beginning I led her to make a few more mistakes than she wanted to. Towards the middle of the second set I became more passive. It's something that I think gave her the chance to move in a little bit more, to approach and come in, start hitting the ball a bit deeper. That made it a little trickier. But overall I thought I did a good job of coming back in the tie-breaker." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will play the winner of Thursday's match between the 2013 Linz champion, 26 year old 7th seeded #8 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, and the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 29 year old #25 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Also on Wednesday at Beijing, in a 2nd round match, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated the 2014 Shenzhen finalist, 28 year old #23 (career high: #14) Shuai Peng from Tianjin, China, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "Some players haven't really gotten used to left-handers' serves, so I think that's my advantage. Normally from the beginning of the match they try and get used to it, and they get better as it goes on, but my serve was great the whole match today, and I'm just glad for that." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Petra will play the 2014 champion at Dubai, 34 year old 16th seeded #18 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Petra leads 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the 3rd round at Wimbledon, when Petra defeated Venus 5-7, 7-6(2), 7-5.

    On Tuesday at Beijing, in the 2nd round of the China Open, the 2014 champion at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 4th seeded #4 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residence: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "It was great to have a good start to the match. [Elina has] had a lot of success this year and had a good tournament last week, so it was a tough second round opponent and I'm really happy to get through.
    "She made me hit a lot of balls—she's a really good mover from side to side—so I tried to open up the court a little bit when I could. Even though the score wasn't close, a lot of the games went to deuce and it was tough at times out there." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday, Maria will play the 2014 Oeiras champ, 26 year old 8th seeded #18 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Maria and Carla are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Montreal, when Carla defeated Maria 6-2, 4-6, 6-2.

    Also on Tuesday at Beijing defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena trailed 0-5 at the start of her 1st round match on Monday. Serena said: "Tonight I was aware that I wanted to start out strong, and I think that was the main difference. I was just trying to make sure I was able to win a game early on." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Lucie 7-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was also this year in the 3rd round at Montreal, when Serena defeated Lucie 7-5, 6-4.

    On Monday at Beijing, in the 1st round of the China Open, the 2014 champion at Flushing Meadows, Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 33 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 26 year old #69 (career high: #60) Silvia Soler-Espinosa of Spain, 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena trailed 0-5 in the 1st set, and faced 3 set points—then she won the next eight games in a row.

    Serena said: "It was really exciting to come away with the win today. I got off to a slow start, but I just really, really wanted to win and get some matches under my belt, so it was good." WTA story

    About the illness which forced her to retire from a match at Wuhan last week Serena said: "I'm really good now. I mean, every day I've been getting better, so I feel so much better now."

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Serena will play the 2014 champion at Sydney (and a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist), 27 year old qualifier #50 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

    Serena leads Tsevi 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round at Wimbledon, when Serena defeated Tsvetana 1-6, 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Monday at Beijing defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "My goal will be to get further than the quarterfinals. But, you know, still I want to just take it one match at a time. The conditions here are very different than at my past few tournaments, so it takes some adjustment. I'm really enjoying my time here so I hope I can stay around for a little bit." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Ana will play 28 year old #152 (career high: #44) Romina Oprandi from Bern, Switzerland.

    Ana and Romina have met only once before, in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Beijing, when Romina defeated Ana 6-4, 6-3.

    On Sunday at Beijing, in the 1st round of the China Open, defeated the 2013 Brussels champ, 29 year old #46 (career high: #16) Kaia Kanepi from Haapsalu, Estonia, 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I thought I played a difficult opponent, someone that I've had trouble against in the past. She's capable of playing really well, has beaten top players before in her career... I started off the match quite well and followed through with that... I actually thought I served quite well today. I was very aggressive and I put a lot of pressure on her." WTA story

    In the Beijing 2nd round, Maria will play a semifinalist last week at Wuhan,
    Maria and Elina have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Sunday at Beijing defeated 22 year old #47 (career high: #39) Heather Watson from Guernsey, England, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the Beijing 2nd round, Venus will play the winner of Monday's match between and
    On Saturday at Beijing, in the 1st round of the China Open, defeated the 2012 Stanford finalist, 22 year old #38 (career high: #38) Coco Vandeweghe from Rancho Santa Fe, California, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the Beijing 2nd round, Agnieszka will play the winner of Sunday's match between and a 2012 & 2010 Roland Garros quarterfinalist, 27 year old #65 (career high: #29) Yaroslava Shvedova from Astana, Kazakhstan.

    Also on Saturday at Beijing the 2014 champion at Hong Kong (and 2013 Wimbledon finalist), 25 year old #26 (career high #13) Sabine Lisicki of Germany (residence: Bradenton, FL), defeated wild card #496 Shilin Xu of China, 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the Beijing 2nd round, Sabine will play last week's finalist at Wuhan,
    Genie and Sabine have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

Wuhan:

#48 Caroline Garcia
5' 10" 134lb RH 2H-BH Wuhan:

#71 Timea Bacsinszky
5' 7" 137lb RH 2H-BH     On Friday in China, in the semifinals of the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, defeated the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, 6-3, 6-4 (Genie is shown during the match; Petra is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Petra's prize is $441,000; Genie's prize is $220,200.

    The win gave Petra enough ranking points to clinch a place in the Singapore WTA Finals.

    Petra said: "We always have great matches, and I wish [Genie] the best of luck for Singapore too. And this was the first tournament ever for Wuhan. It was a great week here." WTA story

    Genie said: "I have to congratulate Petra. She's beaten me in two finals this year, so I will have to figure out what to do to beat her now! I felt like I played really well this week. And the crowd really made me feel at home."

    Petra now leads Genie 3-0 in career matches. Their previous meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the final at Wimbledon, when Petra defeated Genie 6-3, 6-0.

    Petra is now 14-4 in WTA singles finals. She has a 37-13 singles match record in 2014.

    Genie is now 1-3 in WTA singles finals. She has a 44-19 singles match record this season.

    On Friday in China, in the semifinals of the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Genie is shown while hitting balls to the crowd after match point).

    Genie said: "I think I played very aggressively, and it was all about trying to maintain it. Of course I expected some resistance, and she definitely made me fight for every point, but I was happy with the way I was serving and stepping in and the way I kind of regathered by concentration. I feel like I played very, very well, maybe up there with Wimbledon, maybe better." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Wuhan, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 3rd seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "[Elina] came back at the beginning of the second set and tried to play more aggressively than she did before. After I went up a break I thought it would be enough to just keep holding my serve, but then she broke me, and she was playing very well. She was even leading. But I believed I could break her again and I did it. I'm lucky I was able to do that and that I won in the end. We really fought hard out there. I think we played some great tennis today." WTA story

    Petra will play Genie in the Wuhan final on Saturday. The winner will earn enough ranking points to clinch a place in the Singapore WTA Finals.

    Petra leads Genie 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the final at Wimbledon, when Petra defeated Genie 6-3, 6-0.

    Petra is 13-4 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 36-13 singles match record in 2014.

    Genie is 1-2 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 44-18 singles match record this season.

    On Thursday in China, in the quarterfinals of the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (Genie is shown after match point).

    In the semifinals on Friday, Genie will play the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Genie and Caro have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Thursday at Wuhan, the 2014 Wimbledon and New Haven champion, 24 year old 3rd seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (Petra is also shown after match point).

    Petra said: "I know Garcia had a great week here, that she beat Venus [Williams] and Aga [Radwanska] 7-6 in the third. You always have to be prepared for a fight. I knew that she can play really well, and that she can serve well and play very aggressively from the baseline, so I knew that I had to be ready for her...

    "It was quite humid and hot today, and I was really sweating a lot, but the court feels faster, which is something that probably suits my game a lot. And I'm serving well, so that's helpful too." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Petra will play the 2014 (and 2013) Baku champion, 20 year old #35 (career high #33) Elina Svitolina from Kharkiv, Ukraine.

    Petra and Elina have met only once before, earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Cincinnati, when Elina defeated Petra 6-2, 7-6(2).

    On Wednesday in China, in the 3rd round of the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Genie is shown after match point).

    Genie said: "It was straight sets, but it was definitely tougher than the score. Alison is a really good player and wasn't giving me many free points. I really had to fight for every single point, and I think the crowd saw that and appreciated our efforts." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Genie will play the 2014 champion at Katowice, 24 year old (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Genie and Alize are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the 4th round at Wimbledon, when Genie defeated Alize 7-6(5), 7-5.

    Also on Wednesday at Wuhan, 25 year old qualifier #71 (career high: #37) Timea Bacsinszky from Belmont-sur-Lausanne, Switzerland, won the biggest victory of her career by defeating 7-6(3), 7-5 (Timea is shown after match point).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Timea will play the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and US Open finalist), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Caro leads Timea 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at New Haven, when Caroline defeated Timea 4-6, 6-1, 6-2.

    On Tuesday in China, in the 2nd round of the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and Wimbledon finalist), 20 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Genie said: "I made a few too many unforced errors in the first set, and she likes to hit the ball hard, so it was hard to get a rhythm. But I took a step back on the first serve return, was able to get a few more returns in, and started serving a bit better in the second and third sets, so I think those two things helped me out a lot...

    "I really like the surface of the courts here. From my first practice, I loved the feel of the courts. Of course it is a bit humid here in Wuhan, but I am well hydrated and feel great physically on the court. So that's a positive." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday, Genie will play 24 year old #66 (career high: #43) Alison Riske from Hilton Head, South Carolina.

    Genie leads Alison 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a hardcourt in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Granby, Canada, when Genie defeated Alison 6-3, 5-7, 6-2.

    Also on Tuesday at Wuhan, defeated 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 (Garbine is shown while defeating Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova last ween in Tokyo).

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday, Garbine will play
    Garbi leads Elina 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a chlorophyll court at Roehampton in qualifying for Wimbledon, when Garbine defeated Elina 6-3, 6-0.

    Top seed Serena Williams retired from her match against Alize Cornet on Tuesday. Although she had just broken Alize's serve to take a 6-5 lead in the 1st set, Serena was unable to continue due to illness.

    On Monday in China, in the 2nd round of the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, defeated 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-6(7) (Caroline is shown after match point).

    Caroline had defeated former #1 Venus Williams in the 1st round on Sunday.

    Caroline said: "It's a pretty different game playing Venus one day and Radwanska the next day, but I just play the same game from my side. On the court I just always try to play aggressively, no matter who the opponent is in front of me. I really try to believe in myself and believe I can do it. Against players like this, you have to go out there and just believe in yourself." WTA story

    Agnieszka said: "It was a tough match from beginning to end. I was just worse today in those two points in the end... [Caroline] was hitting the ball very hard and serving very well the whole match, especially in the important moments. She kept a really high level. She was just playing really, really well today."

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday, Caroline will play the winner of Tuesday's match between the 2013 champion at Bogota, 29 year old 10th seeded #11 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), and
    Also on Monday at Wuhan, defeated 3-6, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "Svetlana is a very good player, a former Grand Slam champion, and we've had really tough matches in the past. She was a very difficult first opponent for me, so I was happy with the way I played in the second and third sets. I wasn't waiting for her to give me the match. I really stepped up after the first set, and that was really important." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday, Maria will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Tokyo:

#33 Belinda Bencic
5'8" 139lb RH 2H-BH Tokyo:

#24 Victoria Azarenka
6'0" 145lb RH 2H-BH Seoul:

#36 Karolina Pliskova
6'1" 159lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Tokyo, in the semifinals of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, defeated 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "In the beginning it really took me some time to adjust to [Angelique's] game. It wasn't like my previous matches. But once I adjusted and got more aggressive it started to go my way, and I'm really happy with the win today because she's always such a tough and challenging opponent." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Tokyo, defeated 6-4, 2-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Caroline will play Ana in the Tokyo final on Sunday.

    Ana leads Caroline 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Monterrey, when Ana defeated Caro 7-6(5), 6-4.

    Caroline is 22-14 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 43-15 singles match record in 2014.

    Ana is 14-7 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 51-14 singles match record this season.

    On Sunday at Seoul,, in the final of the KIA Korean Open, will play 28 year old 5th seeded #43 (career high: #19) Varvara Lepchenko from Allentown, Pennsylvania (birthplace: Tashkent, Uzbekistan).

    Karolina and Varvara have met only once before, in 2009 on a hardcourt in an ITF tourney at Fort Walton Beach, when Karolina defeated Varvara 4-6, 6-2, 6-4.

    Karolina is 1-3 in previous WTA singles finals. Her singles match record this season is 46-25.

    Varvara is playing in her first WTA singles final. Her 2014 singles match record is 27-19.

    On Saturday in China, in the final of the Guangzhou Open, defeated 6-4, 6-0.

    Monica said: "I think it's very tough to play against me, because I put many balls back and run a lot and fight for every ball. I think in this heat and humidity it's definitely not easy to play against me." WTA story

    Monica now leads Alize 2-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in 2012 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Monica defeated Alize 5-7, 6-0, 6-3.

    Monica is now 2-2 in WTA singles finals. She has a 26-21 singles match record this year.

    Alize is now 4-5 in WTA singles finals. She has a 31-21 singles match record in 2014.

    On Friday at Tokyo, in the quarterfinals of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, the 2007 PPO finalist and 2014 champ at Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 3rd seeded #10 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI). defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ana had lost to Lucie in their previous five encounters. Ana said: "From the first moment, I tried not to think too much about the score and just the next point, the next game, and that's what I did really well. I was really pleased with that and felt that I played a really good match today." WTA story

    In the Tokyo semifinals on Saturday, Ana will play the 2013 PPO finalist (and Linz champion), 26 year old top seeded #7 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    Ana leads Angelique 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Dubai, when Ana defeated Angelique 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6).

    Also on Friday at Tokyo, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old #25 (career high: #25) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, defeated 29 year old #29 (career high: #29) Casey Dellacqua from Perth, Australia, 3-6, 7-6(5), 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the Tokyo semifinals on Saturday, Garbine will play the 2010 Pan Pacific Open champion (and 2014 champ at Istanbul & US Open finalist), 24 year old 2nd seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Garbi leads Caro are 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting earlier this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Garbine defeated Caroline 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.

    On Saturday in China, in the final of the Guangzhou Open, the 2014 champion at Katowice, 24 year old 2nd seeded #22 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, will play the 2013 champ at Florianopolis, 26 year old #60 (career high: #28) Monica Niculescu from Bucharest, Romania.

    Alize and Monica are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Monica defeated Alize 5-7, 6-0, 6-3.

    Alize is 4-4 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 31-20 singles match record in 2014.

    Monica is 1-2 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 25-21 singles match record this year.

    On Thursday at Tokyo, in the 2nd round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, defeated 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Caroline said: "[Jarmila] was playing really well so I just tried to fight for every point. It took me a little while to get into it and she was hitting a very heavy ball. At the same time I was hitting too short and this gave her the opportunity to be very aggressive...
    "I got a bit lucky in the second set, but I managed to win it and then do the same in the third. It was a very close match." WTA story

    In the Tokyo quarterfinals on Friday, Caro will play
    Caro and Carla are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 1st round at Stuttgart, when Carla defeated Caroline 7-6(6), 6-1.

    Also on Thursday at Tokyo, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old #25 (career high: #25) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, defeated 7-6(4), 6-4 (photo shown).

    Garbine said: "I'm really happy with this match, because [Jelena is an] ex-world #1, and also because I lost to her a few years ago, so this is like another step forward."

    In the Tokyo quarterfinals on Friday, Garbine will play 29 year old #29 (career high: #29) Casey Dellacqua from Perth, Australia.

    Garbi and Casey are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at Tokyo, when Garbine defeated Casey 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Tokyo, in the 1st round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, defeated the 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ, 25 year old #24 (and former #1) Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "It was a very tough second round match. She'd had one match already, so I really tried to take my time and get into the match, working hard for each point. It was a good quality match and I played some good tennis in the important moments. I'm just very happy to be through, because it was a tough draw." WTA story

    In the Tokyo quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play
    Lucie leads Ana 5-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 3rd round at Roland Garros, when Lucie defeated Ana 6-3, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Tokyo, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Angelique said: "I think I like the courts here, because I always play well here. They are maybe a little bit different, but the weather also makes a difference."

    In the Tokyo quarterfinals on Friday, Angelique will play
    Domi leads Angie 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a hardcourt in Fed Cup play at Bratislava, when Angelique defeated Dominika 6-3, 7-6(5).

    On Tuesday at Tokyo, in the 1st round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, the 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ, 25 year old #24 (and former #1) Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated the 2009 Seoul champion, 43 year old #86 (and former #4, all time Japanese #1) Kimiko Date Krumm from Tokyo, Japan, 3-6, 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Vika said: "[Kimiko is] a very tricky player and playing in Japan is definitely very special for her. From my end, I didn't really play that well in the first set and couldn't really find my rhythm. She's the type of player that doesn't really give you any rhythm, so it was a little bit challenging for me. I just tried to stay positive, to fight back and to find a way to turn the match around." WTA story

    In the Tokyo 2nd round on Wednesday, Victoria will play the 2014 champ at Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 3rd seeded #10 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Vika leads Ana 5-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 4th round of the US Open, when Victoria defeated Ana 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Tuesday at Tokyo, the 2014 Acapulco champion (and Australian Open finalist), 25 year old 6th seeded #13 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated the 2013 finalist at 's-Hertogenbosch, 28 year old #48 (career high: #13) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    A magnitude 5.6 earthquake centered north of Tokyo struck during the last game of the match. Many players felt the ground shake, but Dominika didn't notice it.

    Domi said: "I didn't even feel it. People were talking and I didn't really know what was happening... I'm really, really happy with my match today. The last two months were really tough for me. I didn't play as well as I wanted to, and I didn't feel that good on the court. So I'm happy to start so well in Asia. I've been playing well in practice, so I'm happy I could also play well in the match." WTA story

    In the Tokyo 2nd round on Wednesday, Dominika will play
    Domi and CoCo have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Monday at Tokyo, in the 1st round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Belinda said: "My first WTA win came here last year, so I have very positive impression of Japan. I always seem to play well here, so I'm happy to be back. It's now a year I've been playing in the seniors and I really love it...

    "I don't really like to set myself goals for a ranking, because I think it creates unnecessary pressure, but of course, I'd love to be in the top 30 as soon as possible. I'm not sure when, but I think if I get good results, it will come automatically." WTA story

    Also on Monday at Tokyo, defeated 6(4)-7, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Lucie will play Belinda in the Tokyo 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday. They have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Monday at Seoul,, in the 1st round of the KIA Korean Open, defeated (photo shown).

    said: " ." WTA story

    On Monday in China, in the 1st round of the Guangzhou Open, defeated (photo shown).

    said: " ." WTA story

Tashkent:

#333 Akgul Amanmuradova
6'3" 163lb RH 2H-BH Indian Wells (file, March 6):

#57 Jie Zheng
5'4½" 126lb RH 2H-BH Hong Kong:

#37 Daniela Hantuchova
5'11¼" 123lb RH 2H-BH Tashkent:

#36 Bojana Jovanovski
5'9" 143lb RH 2H-BH Bad Gastein (file, July 20, 2013):

#184 Andrea Hlavackova
5' 8½" 136lb RH 2H-BH Tashkent:
#71 Karin Knapp
5'11" 159lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday in Uzbekistan, in the final of the Tashkent Open, won her first WTA singles title by defeating the 2013 tourney champion (and 2012 Baku champ), 22 year old top seeded #36 (career high: #32) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia, 6-2, 7-6(4) (Karin is shown holding the hardware—and headware—after the match).

    Karin's prize is $43,000; Bojana's prize is $21,400.

    Karin said: "I can't say how happy I am right now. I've had five surgeries, so many months of lay-offs in the last six years, in and out of tennis the last two years due to bad knee problems - but I knew it was possible for me to win a WTA event one day, and I'm so happy I could do it here in Tashkent." WTA story

    Bojana and Karin had met only once before, earlier this year on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Bojana defeated Karin 6-1, 6-1.

    Karin is now 1-1 in WTA singles finals. She has a 23-23 singles match record this year.

    Bojana is now 2-2 in WTA singles finals. She has a 20-24 singles match record in 2014.

    On Saturday at Quebec City, in semifinals of the Coupe Banque Nationale, defeated 21 year old 4th seeded #86 (career high: #86) Shelby Rogers from Charleston, South Carolina, 6-3, 6-3 (Venus is shown during her 1st round win on Tuesday).

    In the Quebec City final on Sunday, Venus will play a 1999 Wimbledon semifinalist, 32 year old #108 (career high: #32) Mirjana Lucic-Baroni of Croatia (residence: Sarasota, Florida).

    On Saturday at Hong Kong, in semifinals of the Hong Kong Open, defeated the 2010 French Open champ, 34 year old #77 (career high: #4) Francesca Schiavone from Milan, Italy, 6-3, 3-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Sabine said: "It was a great semifinal, Not only for the crowd, but us as well, Lots of long, fun rallies and it's always nice to play those kind of matches and come out on top in them. [Francesca is] a great fighter, she gets back a lot of balls, so you have to be patient, run well, not miss too many balls, but still stay aggressive...

    "I think I've played pretty well this week and I've improved from match to match, so I'm really looking forward to tomorrow." WTA story

    In the Hong Kong final on Sunday, Sabine will play
    Sabine leads Karolina 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Sabine defeated Karolina 6-3, 7-5.

    Sabine is 3-5 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 22-13 singles match record for the season.

    Karolina is 1-2 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 42-24 singles match record this year.

    On Friday in Uzbekistan, in semifinals of the Tashkent Open, the 2013 tourney champion (and 2012 Baku champ), 22 year old top seeded #36 (career high: #32) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia, defeated 20 year old wild card #181 Nigina Abdurimova of Uzbekistan, 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Bojana said: "I started well today, and was happy to finish the match in two sets instead of the three I have been playing the whole week. It was good to play in front of so many people. I would like to compliment Nigina for a wonderful week and game. She has improved a lot, and I am sure she will be a very good player." tourney story

    Also on Friday at Tashkent, the 2008 finalist at Antwerp, 27 year old 3rd seeded #71 (career high: #35) Karin Knapp from Lutago, Italy, defeated 25 year old qualifier #128 (career high: #68) Lesia Tsurenko from Kiev, Ukraine, 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Karin said: "The match was very tough, and not as the scores suggest. I made a plan to hit the ball a bit earlier, so as not to give Lesia time to make her strokes, and made her commit mistakes."

    Bojana will play Karin in the Tashkent final on Saturday.

    Bojana and Karin have met only once before, earlier this year on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Bojana defeated Karin 6-1, 6-1.

    Bojana is 2-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 20-23 singles match record in 2014.

    Karin is 0-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 22-23 singles match record this year.

    On Thursday at Quebec City, in 2nd round of the Coupe Banque Nationale, the 2014 champion at Dubai, 34 year old top seeded #20 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated qualifier #225 Olga Savchuk of the Ukraine, 6-1, 6-2 (Venus is shown during her 1st round win on Tuesday).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Venus will play
    Venus and Lucie have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Thursday at Quebec City, 28 year old #184 (career high: #58) Andrea Hlavackova from Plzen, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 (Andrea is shown playing at Bad Gastein last year).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Andrea will play the 2011 champion at Stuttgart, 25 year old 5th seeded #94 (career high: #16) Julia Goerges from Bad Oldesloe, Germany.

    Julia leads Andrea 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 1st round at Rome, when Julia defeated Andrea 2-6, 6-4, 6-4.

    On Wednesday at Hong Kong, in 2nd round of the Hong Kong Open, the 2013 Wimbledon finalist (and 2011 champ at Birmingham and Dallas), 24 year old top seeded #28 (career high #13) Sabine Lisicki of Germany (residence: Bradenton, FL), defeated a 2014 semifinalist at Bad Gastein, 20 year old #105 (career high: #105) Grace Min from Boca Raton, Florida, 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Sabine said: "I wasn't making many mistakes, and that's always what you want. By the end of last night's match [against Monica Niculescu] I think I was playing pretty well, and I think I really took that momentum into today." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Sabine will play 20 year old #148 (career high: #102) Saisai Zheng of China.

    Sabine and Saisai have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Wednesday at Hong Kong, in a 1st round match the 2012 champion at Pattaya City, Thailand (and the 2002 & '07 Indian Wells champ), 29 year old 2nd seeded #37 (career high: #5) Daniela Hantuchova of Slovakia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 24 year old wild card #230 (career high: #184) Ling Zhang of Hong Kong, 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Hong Kong weather has been hot and humid. Daniela said: "I think these were probably the toughest conditions I've ever played in in my career. It was very hot. And I was really struggling with the heat, especially in the second set. It was very, very difficult to be out there... I'm happy I was able to make it through today."

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Daniela will play 20 year old #83 (career high: #83) Alison Van Uytvanck from Grimbergen, Belgium.

    Daniela and Alison will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Tuesday at Hong Kong, in 1st round of the Hong Kong Open, the 2013 Wimbledon finalist (and 2011 champ at Birmingham and Dallas), 24 year old top seeded #28 (career high #13) Sabine Lisicki of Germany (residence: Bradenton, FL), defeated 1-6, 6-4, 6-1 (Sabine is shown on a visit to Hong Kong's Victoria Peak over the weekend).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Sabine will play a 2014 semifinalist at Bad Gastein, 20 year old #105 (career high: #105) Grace Min from Boca Raton, Florida.

    Sabine and Grace have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Hong Kong, the 2011 Auckland champ, 31 year old #57 (career high: #15) Jie Zheng from Chengdu, Sichuan, China, defeated 22 year old #152 Misa Eguchi of Japan, 1-6, 6-4, 6-1 (Jie is shown while defeating Paula Ormaechea in the 1st round at Indian Wells this year).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Jie will play her compatriot, 24 year old qualifier #324 (career high: #316) Kai-Lin Zhang of China.

    Jie and Kai-Lin will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Monday in Uzbekistan, in 1st round of the Tashkent Open, the 2013 tourney champion (and 2012 Baku champ), 22 year old top seeded #36 (career high: #32) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia, defeated the 2008 Birmingham champ, 28 year old #541 (career high: #29) Kateryna Bondarenko from Kharkov, Ukraine, 1-6, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Bojana will play the 2010 champ at Tashkent, 26 year old #137 (career high: #56) Alla Kudryavtseva from Moscow, Russia.

    Bojana and Alla are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the 1st round at Strasbourg, when Bojana defeated Alla 7-6(3), 6-3.

    Also on Monday at Tashkent, a local resident, 30 year old wild card #333 (career high: #50) Akgul Amanmuradova of Uzbekistan, defeated 20 year old #125 Jovana Jaksic from Belgrade, Serbia, 6-4, 2-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Akgul will play qualifier #193 Lyudmyla Kichenok of the Ukraine.

    Akgul and Lyudmyla have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

Flushing Meadows:

#1211 Catharine Cartan Bellis
5' ?" ?lb RH 2H-BH Flushing Meadows:

#10 Jelena Jankovic
5'9½" 130lb RH 2H-BH Flushing Meadows:

#40 Shuai Peng
5'8" 135lb RH 2H-FH&BH Flushing Meadows:

#18 Ekaterina Makarova
5' 10" 127lb LH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Flushing Meadows, in the final of the 2014 US Open, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 29 winners (7 aces) with 23 unforced errors (3 double faults) while scoring on 5 of the 10 break points she reached against Caroline and totaling 65 points. Caro hit 4 winners (3 aces) with 15 errors (3 DFs) while converting 2 of the 4 break points she reached against Serena and totaling 49 points. match stats

    Serena held serve in the first game of the match, after which there were five consecutive service breaks. After Serena was able to hold serve again, the outcome of the match became clear.

    Serena said: "I'd like to say congratulations to Caroline. She knows the struggles I've been through - we text almost every day. Caroline I know you're going to win one very soon, maybe even in Australia, so I've got to go home and get ready for you there!"

    "It's a pleasure for me to win No.18 here. I couldn't ask to do it at a better place." WTA story

    Caroline said: "Congratulations to Serena, you really deserved it today. You're an unbelievable champion and an inspiration to me on and off the court."

    Serena now leads Caroline 9-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was three weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Cincinnati, when Serena defeated Caroline 2-6, 6-2, 6-4. One week before that, Serena defeated Caro in the quarters at Montreal, 4-6, 7-5, 7-5.

    Serena is now 63-17 in WTA singles finals, and 18-4 in Grand Slam singles finals. She has a 45-6 singles match record in 2014.

    Caroline is now 22-14 in WTA singles finals, and 0-2 in Grand Slam singles finals. She has a 40-15 singles match record this year.

    Monday Men's Final: s10 Kei Nishikori JPN v s14 Marin Cilic CRO
    On Friday at Flushing Meadows, in the semifinals of the 2014 US Open, the 2013, 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 tourney champion (and 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 24 winners (5 aces) with 15 unforced errors (1 double fault) while scoring on 5 of the 10 break points she reached against Ekaterina and totaling 58 points. Kate hit 6 winners (1 ace) with 16 errors (no DFs) while converting the one break point she reached against Serena and totaling 33 points. match stats

    Serena said: "I think I played pretty well today. I was able to change up my game and just keep moving forward and just keep doing what I could do today." postmatch interview

    Ekaterina said: "It's always tough to play against [Serena]. Today she was so aggressive. I don't know. Maybe I didn't think that she will be that aggressive. Like she's just coming so early, so sometimes I was too late because she was too fast. I don't know. I'm still so happy that I was in semis." postmatch interview

    In Friday's other semifinal, the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and 2009 US Open finalist), 24 year old 10th seeded #11 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 7-6(1), 4-3 retired when Shuai could not continue due to heat illness (Caro is shown during the match).

    Caroline struck 19 winners (5 aces) with 21 unforced errors (10 double faults) while scoring on all four of the break points she reached against Shuai and totaling 75 points. Shuai also hit 19 winners (1 ace) but with 32 errors (3 DFs) while converting 3 of the 9 break points she reached against Caro and totaling 65 points. match stats

    Shuai was stricken by very bad heat illness after she reached a break point against Caroline in the 2nd set. She took an off-court medical time out, then returned to play serveral more points. Shuai then collapsed on the court and could not continue. She was taken from the court on a wheelchair.

    Shuai said: "They check my temperature... the doctor, she said to me, 'You are not able really go out to fight, compete, because look, is not really well.' I said, 'No, no, no, I don't want to give up. I want to try one more time.' Yeah. And then I come back... I could not really control... my body... then have no choice. I want, but I could not." postmatch interview

    Caroline said: "Tennis is great, but the health is more important. To see [Shuai] struggling out there, I just wanted to make sure she was okay. I got the word that she's okay now and just getting cooled down, so that's great to hear.

    "I'm in the finals, which is obviously great. It's been five years for me since my last one here, so I'm extremely happy to be back there." postmatch interview

    Caroline will play Serena in the US Open final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Caroline 8-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Cincinnati, when Serena defeated Caroline 2-6, 6-2, 6-4. One week before that, Serena defeated Caro in the quarters at Montreal, 4-6, 7-5, 7-5.

    Serena is 62-17 in previous WTA singles finals, and 17-4 in previous Grand Slam singles finals. She has a 44-6 singles match record in 2014.

    Caroline is 22-13 previous in WTA singles finals, and 0-1 in previous Grand Slam singles finals. She has a 40-14 singles match record this year.

    Caroline said: "[Serena is] obviously a tough opponent. When she's on fire, she's hard to beat. But I have had two tough matches against her the last few weeks. I was really close. Hopefully for me that would be third time's the charm."

    Serena said: "I definitely expect another close match. [Caroline] really knows my game well and knows how to play. She's so consistent. I think that's one of the things that makes her really tough. So I just have to be ready for that and, again, just stay calm and just be able to relax and be happy."

    Monday Men's Final: s10 Kei Nishikori JPN v s14 Marin Cilic CRO

    On Wednesday at Flushing Meadows, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 US Open, the 2013, 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 tourney champion (and 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).
    Serena struck 31 winners (7 aces) with 19 unforced errors (3 double faults) while scoring on 5 of the 15 break points she reached against Flavia and totaling 66 points. Flavia hit 13 winners (6 aces) with 16 errors (1 DF) while converting 2 of the 6 break points she reached against Serena and totaling 46 points. match stats

    Serena said: "Tonight I was just trying to do what I have been working on in practice. [Flavia] was playing really well and she was playing, you know, very aggressive... This is definitely the best she's played me. I really had to step up my game." postmatch interview

    Also on Wednesday in New York, the 2010 Eastbourne champ, 26 year old 17th seeded #18 (career high: #18) Ekaterina Makarova from Moscow, Russia, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Kate struck 23 winners (4 aces) with 21 unforced errors (3 double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 12 break points she reached against Vika and totaling 64 points. Vika hit 22 winners (3 aces) with 27 errors (6 DFs) while converting 1 of the 3 break points she reached against Kate and totaling 54 points. match stats

    Ekaterina said: "At the beginning was really tough to change the game to my way, because [Vika] was really aggressive and let me move a lot. So then she did a break, and I just tried to stay with my game, to play point by point, to be solid and turn it around." postmatch interview

    Victoria was reported to have been suffering from food poisoning. But, Victoria said: "I just want to give credit to [Ekaterina]. She played really well today. Am I disappointed? Yes, I'm disappointed. But I feel like I tried my best with whatever I had. But I just want to wish her good luck... She deserves to win. She played much better than me today." postmatch interview

    Kate will play Serena in the US Open semifinals on Friday.

    Serena leads Kate 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Dubai, when Serena defeated Ekaterina 7-6(8), 6-0.

    Serena said: "I have played two lefties already and I often practice with Varvara [Lepchenko]. She's a lefty. I think that's been good for me, so I'm ready for the lefty. I think it will be a good match. [Kate has] beaten me before. I am obviously going to go in there and just try to do the best I can."

    Kate said: "[Serena is] a great and tough player... But once I beat her already, so I have a great memory. I have a great feeling of that match... I need to be a little bit more aggressive than she is; [and make] her move, definitely."

    In Friday's other semifinal, the 2014 champ at Istanbul (and 2009 US Open finalist), 24 year old 10th seeded #11 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), will play the 2014 Shenzhen finalist, 28 year old #40 (career high: #14) Shuai Peng from Tian Jin, China.

    Caro leads Shuai 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at New Haven, when Caroline defeated Shuai 2-6, 3-1 retired. Shuai was unable to continue that day due to dizziness (she had just flown in from Cincinnati, where she played in the doubles final the day before).

    About her possible semifinal opponents [Wozniacki & Errani], Shuai said: "They both beat me more than I beat them. That's for sure. Also [they are] very good players, and they have really good movement, and they both are really strong mentally, and really tough. For now I think I will just like try to rest and [for the semifinal], I will try to focus again." postmatch interview

    Caroline said: "[Shuai has] been playing well. She's playing aggressively. She's strong from both sides. She's been serving well. It's going to be a difficult match. It's definitely going to be a different match than against Sara today. Sara runs a lot of balls down and doesn't make many mistakes, but Peng is closer to the baseline and going for her shots more. It's going to be a hard one, but it's going to be fun."

    On Tuesday at Flushing Meadows, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 US Open, the 2014 champ at Istanbul, 24 year old 10th seeded #11 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), demolished the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 27 year old 13th seeded #14 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy, 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Caroline struck 26 winners (4 aces) with 10 unforced errors (3 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 9 break points she reached against Sara and totaling 57 points. Sara hit 12 winners (no aces) with 13 errors (no DFs) while converting 1 of the 8 break points she reached against Caro and totaling 26 points. match stats

    Caroline said: "I had a game plan in mind. I went for my shots. I knew I had to be aggressive but not too aggressive, kind of find a balance between finding the opening, then really going for my shots whenever I had the opportunity for it." WTA story

    Sara said: "She doesn't let you play. She never misses. And every point was a long point, and it made me feel worse, physically. I tried to change my game in the second set to be much more aggressive, and I tried to go into the net more, because on the baseline she was killing me. But it was difficult. She was playing too solid."

    Also on Tuesday in New York, the 2014 Shenzhen finalist, 28 year old #40 (career high: #14) Shuai Peng from Tian Jin, China, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Shuai struck 24 winners (5 aces) with 7 unforced errors (1 double fault) while scoring on 4 of the 5 break points she reached against Belinda and totaling 54 points. Belinda hit 12 winners (4 aces) with 19 errors (2 DFs) while converting neither of the 2 break points she reached against Shuai and totaling 36 points. match stats

    Shuai has reached the US Open semifinals without losing a set, and without losing more than four games to any player.

    Belinda said: "I think [Shuai] played really well, for sure. I didn't do so. I had like little outs and a lot of unforced errors. She served good, and she didn't let me come to the match back again. So it was a little bit tough, but I think it was awesome tournament for me... I think she has a dangerous game with both hands, and the ball is really coming different from her racquet. I had a little bit troubles with this today. Also angles are great. She's a great doubles player, as well. It's good for her." postmatch interview

    Caroline will play Shuai in the US Open semifinals on Friday.

    Caro leads Shuai 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at New Haven, when Caroline defeated Shuai 2-6, 3-1 retired. Shuai was unable to continue that day due to dizziness (she had just flown in from Cincinnati, where she played in the doubles final the day before).

    About her possible semifinal opponents [Wozniacki & Errani], Shuai said: "They both beat me more than I beat them. That's for sure. Also [they are] very good players, and they have really good movement, and they both are really strong mentally, and really tough. For now I think I will just like try to rest and [for the semifinal], I will try to focus again." postmatch interview

    Caroline said: "[Shuai has] been playing well. She's playing aggressively. She's strong from both sides. She's been serving well. It's going to be a difficult match. It's definitely going to be a different match than against Sara today. Sara runs a lot of balls down and doesn't make many mistakes, but Peng is closer to the baseline and going for her shots more. It's going to be a hard one, but it's going to be fun."

    On Monday at Flushing Meadows, in the 4th round of the 2014 US Open, the 2013, 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 tourney champion (and 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 19 winners (8 aces) with 16 unforced errors (4 double faults) while scoring on 5 of the 9 break points she reached against Kaia and totaling 59 points. Kaia hit 11 winners (no aces) with 13 errors (3 DFs) while converting both of the 2 break points she reached against Serena and totaling 45 points. match stats

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Serena will play the 2014 champion at Indian Wells (and 2013 US Open semifinalist), 32 year old 11th seeded #12 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland).

    Serena leads Flavia 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Cincinnati, when Serena defeated Flavia 6-2, 6-2.

    Serena said: "I think [Flavia] plays really well. I think the older she gets the better she plays, to be honest. It is not an easy matchup for me. We played in Cincinnati. I won. But she played well... This is a new week. She obviously learned a lot from that experience and she's going to come out ready to fire and to play again." postmatch interview

    Also on Monday in New York, the 2013 US Open finalist (and 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ), 25 year old 16th seeded #17 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "[Aleksandra] played on a really high level and pretty consistent through the whole match. She gave a fight, and she wasn't afraid to go big on the important moments... She has a good future if she keeps going this way." postmatch interview

    Aleksandra said: "It was a very great tournament for me. I got myself a chance to play against the big champions. To feel that you can compete with them on the same level. It's a big deal, and for sure gives me big motivation to keep working." postmatch interview

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Victoria will play the 2010 Eastbourne champ, 26 year old 17th seeded #18 (career high: #18) Ekaterina Makarova from Moscow, Russia.

    Vika leads Kate 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a red clay in the 2nd round at Madrid, when Ekaterina defeated Victoria 1-6, 6-2, 6-3.

    Victoria said: "[Ekaterina is] a very tough opponent because she's very consistent. She reads the game really well. We had some tough matches in the past. I think she's not afraid to play against top players. She's handled herself well against big names in Grand Slams. She's definitely playing well. I'm looking forward to that match."

    On Sunday at Flushing Meadows, in the 4th round of the 2014 US Open, the 2014 champ at Istanbul, 24 year old 10th seeded #11 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-4, 2-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Caroline struck 22 winners (3 aces) with 17 unforced errors (2 double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 11 break points she reached against Maria and totaling 95 points. Maria hit 39 winners (4 aces) with 43 errors (8 DFs) while converting 3 of the 7 break points she reached against Caro and totaling 86 points. match stats

    Caroline said: "The season for me has been a little bit up and down, and it's so nice to kind of start feeling like I'm playing the way I want to... I'm serving well, I'm running well, I'm staying aggressive when I have to, and I make the right decisions at the right moment. And I enjoy playing." postmatch interview

    Maria said: "[I] made a few sloppy errors to lose that first set in the end. Was happy with the way I turned things around and started playing a bit more aggressive. Got in the points with her. In the third set I stopped doing that. Allowed her to get back in those long points, long rallies, and ultimately went for the shots that created errors...
    "I thought [Caroline] played really well. She made me hit a lot of balls. That's always been her strength. But she did extremely well today. She's a great retriever, especially in these types of conditions. I just felt like I maybe went for a little too much." postmatch interview

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Caroline will play the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 27 year old 13th seeded #14 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Caro leads Sara 2-1 in career matches. They have not met since 2010, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Beijing, Caroline defeated Sara 6-4, 6-2.

    Also on Sunday in New York, 17 year old #59 (career high: #58) Belinda Bencic from Flawil, Switzerland, defeated 7-6(6), 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Belinda will play the 2014 Shenzhen finalist, 28 year old #40 (career high: #14) Shuai Peng from Tian Jin, China.

    Belinda and Shuai have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Saturday at Flushing Meadows, in the 3rd round of the 2014 US Open, the 2013, 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 tourney champion (and 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 14 winners (3 aces) with 21 unforced errors (3 double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 13 break points she reached against Varvara and totaling 74 points. Varvara hit 24 winners (6 aces) with 32 errors (3 DFs) while converting 1 of the 4 break points she reached against Serena and totaling 57 points. match stats

    Serena said: "I love practicing with [Varvara]. We always practice together in tournaments. Whenever I can, I love hitting with her. I think it helps her game and she helps my game... As you can see, she gives 100% on the court. She always tries to do the best. She's great. She is an incredible fighter." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Monday, Serena will play the 2013 Brussels champ, 29 year old #49 (career high: #16) Kaia Kanepi from Haapsalu, Estonia.

    Serena leads Kaia 3-0 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Beijing, Serena defeated Kaia 7-5, 6-4.

    Also on Saturday in New York, 21 year old qualifier #143 (career high: #126) Aleksandra Krunic from Belgrade, Serbia, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Aleksandra said: "I tried not to think about the score, and I kept telling myself 'leave it on [Petra]' because everything is up to her still and she's in charge. I tried to put the pressure off my shoulders, because usually last couple of years I'm the one who is putting the pressure on myself. So I tried not to do it today. And also on the changeover, on the 6-5 in the second, I just told to myself, 'It's still on her. You still have nothing to lose, even if you'd be 6-5, 5-Love up. Play as every other game you have played.' Surprisingly, I managed to do it pretty well..." postmatch interview

    Petra said: "I think [Aleksandra] played really unbelievable tennis and she put a lot of balls back. Almost all of them. For me it was very difficult just to play only on the winners. I did mistakes and I was really trying everything what I could in that moment. I was trying to fight and fighting every point, but it was so difficult. It wasn't really my day. She played really great tennis today." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Monday, Aleksandra will play the 2013 US Open finalist (and 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ), 25 year old 16th seeded #17 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Victoria and Aleksandra have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Friday at Flushing Meadows, in the 3rd round of the 2014 US Open, 17 year old #59 (career high: #58) Belinda Bencic from Flawil, Switzerland, defeated 6-1, 7-5 (Belinda is shown after match point).

    Belinda said: "It feels amazing. I played a really good match right from the start, and then I had a little bit timeout in the second. But I'm happy that I came back. It's amazing that after [losing in the main draw] last year I played juniors here, and this year I'm in the fourth round. So it's incredible." postmatch interview

    Also on Friday in New York, the 2013 champion at Bogota, 29 year old 9th seeded #10 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), crushed, killed and destroyed the 2013 Båstad finalist, 26 year old #96 (career high: #46) Johanna Larsson from Helsingborg, Sweden, 6-1, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Jelena said: "I was very focused from the beginning till the end. I played a solid match. I did not—I was very patient. I did not go for too much. I waited for my chances to execute. That's what I did. I'm pretty pleased. You know, I'm in the fourth round and looking forward to playing." postmatch interview

    Jelena will play Belinda in the US Open 4th round on Sunday.

    JJ and Belinda have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Belinda said: "I think [Jelena is] really good, and I looked up to her a lot. So I just hope it will be a good match."

    On Thursday at Flushing Meadows, in the 2nd round of the 2014 US Open, the 2013, 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 tourney champion (and 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, crushed, killed and destroyed the 2006 champion at Bangkok, 25 year old #80 (career high: #50) Vania King from Long Beach, California, 6-1, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 25 winners (4 aces) with 15 unforced errors (5 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 11 break points she reached against Vania and totaling 59 points. Vania hit 5 winners (no aces) with 16 errors (3 DFs) while converting neither of the 2 break points she reached against Sharapova and totaling 29 points. match stats

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Serena will play 28 year old #52 (career high: #19) Varvara Lepchenko from Allentown, Pennsylvania (birthplace: Tashkent, Uzbekistan).

    Serena leads Varvara 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 3rd round at Rome, when Serena defeated Varvara 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Thursday in New York, the 2013 US Open finalist (and 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ), 25 year old 16th seeded #17 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated the 2014 finalist at Acapulco, 22 year old #43 (career high: #24) Christina McHale from Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "I think [Christina] started really well. I felt like I was a little bit, you know, watching too much and not aggressive enough. But she really picked her targets and went for her shots. It took me a little bit of time to get into the rhythm. And, you know, conditions weren't really easy. I think also I needed a little bit of a moment to adjust. But in the next match I've got to be able to do that earlier. But I'm glad I was able to turn things around and I stayed in the moment and really was working my way through and trying to find the rhythm and trying to find the game that I was playing. When things turned around, I really felt like I stepped it up and kept my composure." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Vika will play the 2013 Eastbourne and Hobart champion, 28 year old #51 (career high: #21) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia.

    Victoria leads Elena 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Vika defeated Elena 6-1, 6-4.

    On Wednesday at Flushing Meadows, in the 2nd round of the 2014 US Open, defeated the 2009 & 2010 Warsaw champion, 25 year old #95 (ranking down due to injury, career high: #26) Alexandra Dulgheru from Bucharest, Romania, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria struck 34 winners (3 aces) with 46 unforced errors (9 double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 11 break points she reached against Alexandra and totaling 97 points. Alexandra hit 14 winners (no aces) with 32 errors (4 DFs) and converted 2 of the 3 break points she reached against Sharapova while totaling 88 points. match stats

    Maria said: "[Alexandra] played really well. Although I started off really good in the first couple of games, [I] didn't take the opportunity to go up 3-0. After that she started getting a little bit of a rhythm. It was difficult.

    "Obviously the conditions were tough. You start in the sun; you finish under the lights. It was a very long match. Overall I felt like in the end I was in much better shape than she was and I could have played another few sets." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Maria will play
    Maria leads Sabine 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 3rd round at Madrid, when Maria defeated Sabine 6-2, 7-5.

    Maria said: "[Sabine is] a great player... I expect a tough match from her."

    Also on Wednesday in New York, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (Shuai is shown after match point).

    Shuai said: "Really happy and really exciting... I played [Agnieszka] four times and I won only one time, and that was in the US Open four years ago. So maybe... the luck may be coming back today... I knew she was really tough, one of top players, because she never misses and she's running so fast. She makes you see a lot of angles; really smart player... I was really happy today." postmatch interview

    Agnieszka said: "[Shuai is a] very solid player, very consistent from both sides, playing very good from the back. Very consistent... I think every game was pretty tight and a lot of rallies. Even the serve wasn't really the big in the weapon in that match, so every game could go either way. But I think in the important moments I think she was just playing a little bit better." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Shuai will play
    Shuai and Roberta are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Cincinnati, when Shuai defeated Roberta 6-3, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Flushing Meadows, in the 1st round of the 2014 US Open, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "It was very tough first-round match. We had a tough one in Auckland... [Alison] had a good run last week, so I really tried to start sharp and tried to play my game to put pressure on her... I was very pleased, especially the way I finished the second set." postmatch interview

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Ana will play
    Ana and Karolina have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Tuesday in New York, 15 year old #1211 (career high: #1204) Catherine Cartan "CiCi" Bellis from San Francisco, California, defeated 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    The win made CiCi the youngest player to win a US Open match since Anna Kournikova in 1996.

    CiCi said: "I'm feeling amazing. I'm still speechless... I went in thinking I was going to play as well as I could possibly play. I obviously played pretty well. So I'm really happy." postmatch interview

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, CiCi, who is passing up at least $60,000 in prize money to retain her amateur status (for college), will play
    Zarina and CiCi will also be meeting for the first time.

    On Monday at Flushing Meadows, in the 1st round of the 2014 US Open, the 2014 champ at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 5th seeded #6 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated the 2013 champ at Pattaya City, 27 year old #113 (rank down due to injury; career high: #10) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia, 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Maria Sharapova struck 15 winners (no aces) with 18 unforced errors (5 double faults) while scoring on 5 of the 10 break points she reached against Maria Kirilenko and totaling 64 points. Kirilenko hit 12 winners (no aces) with 23 errors (4 DFs) and converted the one break point she reached against Sharapova and totaling 42 points. match stats

    Sharapova trailed 2-4 in the 1st set. Maria said: "I thought there was a few times where I could have broken [Kirilenko] in the beginning of the match. But I think she started off playing well and solid. Despite not taking those opportunities in a couple of her service games, I felt pretty good, especially towards the end of the match." postmatch interview

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Maria will play the 2009 & 2010 Warsaw champion, 25 year old #95 (ranking down due to injury, career high: #26) Alexandra Dulgheru from Bucharest, Romania.

    Maria leads Alexandra 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Maria defeated Alexandra 7-5, 6-2.

    Also on Monday in New York, defeated 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 (Venus is shown after match point).

    Venus said: "[Kimiko is] a tricky player. I think she started coming up with some really good shots off my serve. I think I just wasn't able to convert enough holds. She just goes for runs, and I give her a lot of credit for winning the first set and really making it extremely challenging." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play
    Venus and Timea have met only once before, in 2008 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round of the Beijing Summer Olympic Games, when Venus defeated Timea 6-3, 6-2.

New Haven:

#56 Magdalena Rybarikova
5' 11" 143lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Yale University, in the final of the Connecticut Open, defeated the 2013 champ at Washington, DC, 25 year old #56 (career high: #31) Magdalena Rybarikova from Bratislava, Slovakia, 6-4, 6-2 (Magda is shown during the match; Petra is shown getting to know the glassware afterward).

    Petra's prize is $120,000; Magdalena's prize is $64,000.

    Petra now leads Magda 5-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the final of an ITF tourney at Prague, when Magdalena defeated Petra 6-3, 6-4.

    Petra is now 13-4 in WTA singles finals, and has a 30-12 singles match record in 2014.

    Magdalena is now 4-2 in WTA singles finals, and has a 17-23 singles match record this season.

    On Friday at Yale University, in the semifinals of the Connecticut Open, the 2013 champ at Washington, DC, 25 year old #56 (career high: #31) Magdalena Rybarikova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Magda fired 7 aces in the match. Magdalena said: "Maybe I was lucky on some break points, but on many of them I served really well. Even on second serves, I was trying to use good kick, which really works."

    The win put Magdalena into her fourth WTA singles final on US soil; she won all of the previous three (Washington 2012 & 2011; Memphis 2009).

    Magda said: "I like to play in the States, I like hardcourts, and I like this tournament. Everything is very easygoing here, relaxing. The hotels are always great. I just feel very good here." WTA story

    Also on Friday at New Haven, the 2014 Wimbledon champion (and 2012 New Haven champ), 24 year old 2nd seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Petra will play Magdalena in the Connecticut Open final on Friday.

    Petra leads Magda 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the final of an ITF tourney at Prague, when Magdalena defeated Petra 6-3, 6-4.

    Petra is 12-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 29-12 singles match record in 2014.

    Magdalena is 4-1 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 17-22 singles match record this season.

    On Thursday at Yale University, in the quarterfinals of the Connecticut Open, the 2014 Wimbledon champion (and 2012 New Haven champ), 24 year old 2nd seeded #4 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "I was not really sure I could play a lot of rallies with her because I know she's a very good mover. I knew it wouldn't be easy and that I had to be really prepared physically and mentally. I wasn't ready from the beginning, but then I got more comfortable on the court." WTA story

    In the Connecticut Open semifinals on Friday, Petra will play the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad (and the 2011 US Open champion), 30 year old #22 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia.

    Petra leads Samantha 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Toronto, when Petra defeated Samantha 6-3, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at New Haven, 20 year old #37 (career high: #37) Camila Giorgi of Italy (residence: France), defeated 6-4, 6(4)-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the Connecticut Open semifinals on Friday, Camila will play the 2013 champ at Washington, DC, 25 year old #56 (career high: #31) Magdalena Rybarikova from Bratislava, Slovakia.

    Camila and Magda have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Wednesday at Yale University, in the 2nd round of the Connecticut Open, 20 year old #37 (career high: #37) Camila Giorgi of Italy (residence: France), defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Camila said: "I think today the serve was the key and was really consistent. I played my type of game." tourney story

    Caroline said: "[Camila] just went for it and the balls were going in. I felt a little tired and didn't move as well as usual. That doesn't help when you play somebody where you really have to be ready from the first point. I knew I was going to get limited break chances, and when I did get them, I didn't convert. I knew I had to be aggressive out there and try to push her back, but I didn't manage to do that today. She played well, and I didn't." WTA story

    Also on Wednesday at New Haven, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old #27 (career high: #27) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, defeated 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Garbine will play Camila in the Connecticut Open quarterfinals on Thursday.

    Camila and Garbi have met only once before, last year on red clay in qualifying at Madrid, when Camila defeated Garbine 6-2, 1-6, 6-3.

    On Tuesday at Yale University, in the 2nd round of the Connecticut Open, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    2014 is the third consecutive year in which the top seeded player has lost in their first match at New Haven (2013's top seed: Sara Errani; 2012: Agnieszka Radwanska).

    Also on Tuesday at New Haven, defeated 6-1, 7-6(3) (photo shown).

    Alison said: "I knew that I had to attack [Flavia's] second serve, because she places her first serve so well. I felt like I was going to get looks at it at any moment, so I just kind of stuck with it, and I ended up returning well today. I just played solid...

    "There are a lot of top players here. I'm definitely proud to be the lone American left, and hopefully I can keep it rolling." WTA story

    Alison will play Magdalena in the Connecticut Open quarterfinals on Thursday.

    Magda and Alison have met only once before, two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Montreal, when Magdalena defeated Alison 6-1, 6-3.

    On Monday at Yale University, in the 1st round of the Connecticut Open, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    It was Genie's first win since Wimbledon; she has been slowed by injuries since then.

    Genie said: "I have my left thigh taped. I've struggled with my knees as well since Wimbledon. It's something I've had on and off for a few years. I struggled with it in Europe. I took a lot of time off after Wimbledon, more than I wanted to really, so that's a contributing factor as well to not training as much." Courant story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Genie will play
    Genie and Samantha are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the final at Osaka, when Samantha defeated Genie 3-6, 7-5, 6-2.

    Also on Monday at New Haven, defeated 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Caroline will play
    Caro and Camila are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the quarterfinals at Eastbourne, when Caroline defeated Camila 6(9)-7, 6-4, 6-2.

    On Sunday at Yale University, in the 1st round of the Connecticut Open, defeated the 2014 champion at Florianopolis (and finalist at Rio & Hobart), 32 year old #36 (career high: #21) Klara Koukalova from Prague, Czech Republic, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Flavia will play
    Flavia and Alison have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Sunday at New Haven, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Kate will play
    Petra leads Kate 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was less than two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Montreal, when Ekaterina defeated Petra 6-4, 1-6, 6-2.

Cincinnati:

#39 Elina Svitolina
5' 9" 137lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Cincinnati, in the final of the Western & Southern Open, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (Ana is shown during the match; Serena is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Serena's prize is $467,300; Ana's prize is $227,000.

    Ana broke Serena's serve in the opening game of the match, but Serena broke back to level the 1st set at 3-3, and broke Ana again when she serving to stay in the 1st set at 4-5. Serena took control from then on. For the match, Serena struck 26 winners (including 12 aces) with 13 unforced errors (including 3 double faults).

    Serena now leads Ana 7-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Stanford, when Serena defeated Ana 2-6, 6-3, 7-5. Ana's only win over Serena came in January of this year, on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 4th round of the Australian Open, when Ana defeated Serena 4-6, 6-3, 6-3.

    Serena is now 62-17 in WTA singles finals, and has a 38-6 singles match record in 2014.

    Ana is now 14-6 in WTA singles finals, and has a 47-13 singles match record this year.

    On Friday at Cincinnati, in the quarterfinals of the Western & Southern Open, the 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I felt pretty good. I felt better. I was just getting consistent. My unforced errors are lower than they've been this year, so it's definitely continuing to go in the right direction. I don't think [Jelena] played her best today but she definitely fought well." WTA story

    Jelena said: "Obviously it was a bad day in the office. I just felt a little bit slow out there. For some reason I was really late on my shots and I did not serve well. I didn't do anything well. [Serena] was obviously the way better player today on the court."

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Caro 7-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier last week on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Montreal, when Serena defeated Caroline 4-6, 7-5, 7-5.

    Also on Friday at Cincinnati, defeated 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play the 2014 champ at Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 9th seeded #10 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Maria leads Ana 8-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 3rd round at Rome, when Ana ended a 7 match losing streak against Maria by defeating her 6-1, 6-4.

    On Thursday at Cincinnati, in the 3rd round of the Western & Southern Open, the 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I got an early break and just didn't let go. That's what I wanted to do because [Flavia] has the ability to come back. Even in the end she tried to make a comeback, but I just stayed focused." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2013 champion at Bogota, 29 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Serena leads Jelena 9-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Dubai, when Serena defeated JJ 6-2, 6-2.

    Serena said: "Playing Jelena is always a challenge. She plays really well and gets a lot of balls back. She's an intense player. It will be interesting."

    Also on Thursday at Cincinnati, the 2014 champ at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 5th seeded #6 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-4, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I knew coming in that [Anastasia is] an aggressive player. I had to try to take that away from her. I'm happy that I was able to win the match in two sets." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will play the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 22 year old 2nd seeded #3 (last week; this week at a new career high: #2) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Maria leads Simona 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the final at Roland Garros, when Maria defeated Simona 6-4, 6(7)-7, 6-4.

    Maria said: "We know each other's games very well because we played quite recently in the middle of the season. [Simona is] having one of her best seasons. Obviously being #2 in the world is a really big achievement. It will be a tough match."

    On Wednesday at Cincinnati, in the 2nd round of the Western & Southern Open, the 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 7-6(7), 7-6(7) (photo shown).

    Serena said: "[Samantha] was up in both of the breakers. I think it was just a great match. She served unbelievably, and I was like, 'I can't lose serve because she's just serving great.' It was really intense. She was extremely aggressive today. She made very few unforced errors. She just did everything really well. This is why she was able to win a Grand Slam." WTA story

    Samantha had been demolished by Serena last week in the 2nd round at Montreal, 6-0, 6-2. Samantha said: "I actually followed through with all of the things I wanted to do last week. It was a huge improvement, and I'm really pleased with the way I played. I'm disappointed I had a couple of set points and didn't at least win that set to take it to a third. But I gave myself every chance to try to get through that one. She came up with some really great stuff when it really counted."

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play the 2014 champion at Indian Wells, 32 year old 13th seeded #14 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland).

    Serena leads Flavia 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Serena defeated Flavia 6-1, 6-1.

    Also on Wednesday at Cincinnati, defeated 6-2, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Elina will play
    Carla and Elina have met only once before, last year on an indoor hardcourt in the 2nd round at Linz, when Carla defeated Elina 6-1, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Cincinnati, in the 2nd round of the Western & Southern Open, defeated 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I didn't have a great week last week [losing in the 3rd round at Montreal]. No matter who is across the net, it's never easy going out in the first round because you want to change that result around. You want to change your attitude and your performance and obviously the result." AP story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Maria will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday at Cincinnati, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Caro will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    On Monday at Cincinnati, in the 1st round of the Western & Southern Open, defeated her good friend, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 24 year old #36 (career high: #21) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, 6-1, 7-5 (photo shown).

    After winning the 1st set, Ana trailed 1-4 in the 2nd, but then won 6 of the last 7 games to take the match.

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and the 2012 & 2013 NCAA singles champion, 21 year old qualifier #142 (career high: #141) Nicole Gibbs from Santa Monica, California.

    Also on Monday at Cincinnati, the 2014 champ at Istanbul, 24 year old 12th seeded #13 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday evening, Caro will play the 2013 champion at Guangzhou, 25 year old #30 (career high: #30) Shuai Zhang from Tianjin, China.

    Caroline and Shuai have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Sunday at Montreal, in the final of the Rogers Cup, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (Venus is shown during the match; Aga is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Agnieszka's prize is $467,300; Venus's prize is $227,000.

    Aga said: "Venus, I just want to say great match. Not just today, but it was a whole week of great tennis. And I had a really amazing week this week too. I've been playing here for years, a couple of times I made the semifinals, and I kept trying and trying, and now I've finally done it." WTA story

    Venus said: "I have to congratulate Agnieszka on a wonderful tournament and a wonderful final. I can't wait until we play again. I'm sure that will be many, many times in the future."

    Venus still leads Agnieszka 5-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on red clay in the 2nd round at Roland Garros, when Aga defeated Venus 6-2, 6-3.

    Agnieszka is now 14-6 in WTA singles finals, and has a 40-14 singles match record in 2014.

    Venus is now 45-29 in WTA singles finals, and has a 24-10 singles match record this season.

    On Saturday at Montreal, in the semifinals of the Rogers Cup, the 2014 champion at Dubai (and 5-time Wimbledon champion), 34 year old #25 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated her sister, 6(2)-7, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Venus struck 6 aces, with 2 double faults, while scoring on 4 of the 8 break points she reached against Serena and totaling 92 points. Serena fired 19 aces, but with 9 double faults, while converting 1 of the 3 break points she held against Venus, and totaling 81 points.

    Venus won 56% of her 2nd serve points (21/37); Serena won only 36% of her 2nd serve points (14/38).

    Venus said: "The level of game we played was pretty high. We're both serving well, returning well, moving well. Everything is happening so well that all of our matches seem to be very competitive." WTA story

    Serena said: "[Venus] was really opening the court well. She's such a good mover. She moves really well. I think her serve was way more consistent than mine. I had more aces, but she served better. Ultimately I think she returned better as well."

    Serena still leads Venus 14-11 in career matches. In early 2009 Venus led Serena 10-9; since then Serena had defeated Venus in five consecutive encounters. Their previous meeting was last year on Har-Tru green clay in the semifinals round at Charleston, when Serena defeated Venus 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Saturday at Montreal, the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 25 year old 3rd seeded #5 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 7-6(1), 7-6(3) (photo shown).

    Aga said: "I think it was a great match. Two hours of fighting and long rallies and tight games. I had to really run a lot to win that match because she's so good. I had to give 100% today. I think I was just better on a few points today. I'm really happy with the win." WTA story

    Venus will play Agnieszka in the Montreal final on Sunday.

    Venus leads Agnieszka 5-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on red clay in the 2nd round at Roland Garros, when Aga defeated Venus 6-2, 6-3.

    Agnieszka is 13-6 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 39-14 singles match record in 2014.

    Venus is 45-28 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 24-9 singles match record this season.

    On Thursday at Montreal, in the 3rd round of the Rogers Cup, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I thought [Carla] played a really good match. I couldn't find my rhythm from the beginning of the match. Always had my back against the wall throughout the whole match. Always came back from behind. Even though I started feeling a little better, it wasn't enough in the end." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Carla will play the 2014 champion at Dubai (and 5-time Wimbledon champion), 34 year old #25 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Carla leads Venus 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in May of this year on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome, when Carla defeated Venus 6-4, 6-2.

    Also on Thursday at Montreal, the 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 7-5, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Caro 6-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Beijing, when Serena defeated Caroline 6-1, 6-4.

    Serena said: "It will be a great match. [Caroline] playing great tennis. She's really focused. She's just doing really, really well. It will be a really, really tough match. It will be a good match for me to see where I am." WTA story

    On Wednesday at Montreal, in the 2nd round of the Rogers Cup, the 2014 champ at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart, 27 year old 4th seeded #6 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "It's been a few weeks since I've been in a competitive atmosphere. It's always quite different than practice no matter how much you train. Once you step on the court, you feel the energy from the crowd and you get inspired by everything, but you're ultimately a bit rusty. I'm just happy that I got through that and won today because I had a very tough opponent." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Maria will play Garbine's doubles partner, the 2014 Oeiras champ, 25 year old 14th seeded #16 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Maria and Carla have met only once before, last year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 3rd round at Indian Wells, when Maria defeated Carla 7-5, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Montreal, the 2014 champion at Stanford, Rome, Miami & Brisbane, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play the 2013 Quebec City champ, 27 year old 15th seeded #17 (career high: #17) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic.

    Serena leads Lucie 6-0 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on green clay in the quarterfinals at Charleston, when Serena defeated Lucie 6-4, 6-1.

    On Tuesday at Montreal, in the 2nd round of the Rogers Cup, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Agnieszka play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday at Montreal, in a 1st round match, defeated 6-1, 3-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    It was Venus' first win in Canada, and her first match ever in Montreal. Venus said: "It was a tough draw for both of us. We're both obviously very good players. She's also a dangerous player for the top players as well, because she can just do everything well. When she's on, it's sometimes very difficult to stop her. So it felt good to get through it. Hopefully I can build on this momentum for the rest of the week." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play
    Venus and Yulia have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday at Montreal, in the 1st round of the Rogers Cup, defeated 6-1, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Sabine said: "I'm definitely pleased with my win. Sara's a very tough competitor, so it's always tough to play someone like that in the first round...

    "I've been working so hard and I played well in the first set last week in Stanford and ended up losing in two. It's always challenging, but I want to get ready for the US Open and it would mean a lot to go far here." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Sabine will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday at Montreal, defeated 17 year old wild card #214 (career high: #209) Francoise Abanda of Canada, 6-1, 3-6, 6-0 (Domi is shown after winning a point).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Domi will play
    Dominika and Heather have met only once before, in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Brisbane, when Domi defeated Heather 6-4, 6-3.
Stanford:

#36 Shuai Zhang
5'10" 143lb RH 2H-BH Washington, DC

#208 Hiroko Kuwata
?' ?" ?lb RH 2H-BH Stanford:

#197 Sachia Vickery
?'?" ?lb RH 2H-BH Washington, DC:

#39 Kurumi Nara
5' 1" 117lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Stanford, in the final of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 7-6(1), 6-3 (Angelique is shown during the match; Serena is shown holding the bearware afterward).

    Serena's prize is $120,000; Angelique's prize is $64,000.

    Angelique ran to a 5-1 lead in the 1st set. Then Serena won 5 straight games before Angelique won another to force the tiebreaker.

    Serena now leads Angelique 5-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Miami, when Serena defeated Angelique 6-2, 6-2.

    Serena is now 61-17 in WTA singles finals, and has a 30-5 singles match record in 2014.

    Angelique is now 3-9 in previous WTA singles finals, with all of her tourney titles coming indoors. She has a 37-16 singles match record for the year.

    At Washington, DC on Sunday, in the final of the Citi Open, won her first title in four years, defeating the 2014 champion at Rio de Janeiro, 22 year old #39 (career high: #38) Kurumi Nara from Hyogo, Japan, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4.

    Svetlana and Kurumi had never before met on the field of combat.

    Svetlana is now 14-20 in WTA singles finals, and has a 19-10 singles match record this season.

    Kurumi is now 1-1 in WTA singles finals, and has a 20-17 singles match record for the year.

    On Friday at Stanford, in the quarterfinals of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 2-6, 6-3, 6- (photo shown).

    Also on Thursday at Stanford, defeated 6-1, 3-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Venus said: "I came close, but [Andrea] was just too good. She's been having a great year and she managed to play those last few games just a little bit better." WTA story

    Serena will play Andrea in the Stanford semifinals on Saturday.

    Serena leads Andrea 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in May of this year on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome, when Serena defeated Andrea 6-2, 6-2.

    In Saturday's other semifinal at Stanford, will play
    Varvara leads Angelique 4-2 in career matches, but Angie won their last two encounters. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 2nd round at Roland Garros, when Angelique defeated Varvara 6-2, 7-5.

    On Thursday at Stanford, in the 2nd round of the Bank of the West Classic, the 2014 champ at Birmingham, Auckland & Monterrey (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 5th seeded #11 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated a Stanford student, 19 year old qualifier #440 Carol Zhao of Canada, 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the Stanford quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play the 2014 Rome, Miami & Brisbane champ, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL.

    Serena leads Ana 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in May of this year on red clay in the semifinals at Rome, when Serena defeated Ana 6-1, 3-6, 6-1.

    Ana said: "It's going to be a tough challenge, but at the same time it's a good test, because when you're starting out with a new coach [Dejan Petrovic] it's good for them to see where you're at and what you have to work on." WTA story

    Also on Thursday at Stanford, defeated the 2013 Birmingham champion (and the 2002 & '07 Indian Wells champ), 31 year old #31 (career high: #5) Daniela Hantuchova of Slovakia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), 6-4, 6-3 (Garbine is shown after match point).

    Garbine said: "I played very well the whole match. I've been practicing and playing a lot, so I knew before I came here that my game was in good shape for Stanford." WTA story

    In the Stanford quarterfinals on Friday, Garbine will play
    Garbi and Angie have met only once before, last year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 4th round at Indian Wells, when Angelique defeated Garbine 6-4, 7-5.

    On Wednesday at Stanford, in the 2nd round of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I was playing a player I knew was going to be very difficult to break, so it was really important for me to be super focused on my serve today... I wasn't feeling any nerves today. I felt good. And I felt fine physically." WTA story

    In the Stanford quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the winner of Thursday's match between
    Also on Wednesday at Stanford, defeated 20 year old #69 (career high: #41) Monica Puig of Puerto Rico (residence: Miami, Florida), 6(4)-7, 6-2, 6-1 (Sachia is shown after match point).

    In the Stanford quarterfinals on Friday, Sachia will play
    Sachia and Varvara have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday at Stanford, in the 1st round of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 7-6(2), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "It was a really good match, even though it was both of our first matches in a while. I got down in that first set and [Sabine] was playing really well, and serving really well too. I really tried to find my rhythm in that set, and in the second set I really started feeling her serves a little bit more. It was a really tough draw for both of us, and I'm happy I was able to win this one." WTA story

    While she lost the match, Sabine posted a new all-time WTA service speed record of 131 miles per hour (previous best was 130mph by Brenda Schultz-McCarthy in qualies at Cincy in 2006, and 129mph by Venus Williams in a main draw match).

    In the Stanford 2nd round on Thursday, Ana will play
    Ana and Carol have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Stanford, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old #28 (career high: #27) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the Stanford 2nd round on Thursday, Garbine will play the 2013 Birmingham champion (and the 2002 & '07 Indian Wells champ), 31 year old #31 (career high: #5) Daniela Hantuchova of Slovakia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    On Monday at Stanford, in the 1st round of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 4-6, 7-6(7), 7-5 (photo shown).

    Naomi joked: "It's probably the second-best win of my life... the first being when I first beat my sister." WTA story

    In the Stanford 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Naomi will play
    Naomi and Petko have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Meanwhile at Washington, DC, in the 1st round of the Citi Open, 23 year old qualifier #208 (career high #200) Hiroki Kuwata of Japan defeated 6-0, 7-5 (Hiroko is shown while defeating Stephanie Dubois in their qualifying final on Sunday).

    In the Washington 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Hiroko will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and 31 year old #122 (career high: #16) Virginie Razzano from Nimes, France.

    On Monday at Stanford, in the 1st round of the Bank of the West Classic, 16 year old qualifier #359 (career high #309) Naomi Osaka from Osaka, Japan, defeated the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad (and the 2011 US Open champion), 30 year old #19 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, 4-6, 7-6(7), 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the Stanford 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Naomi will play the winner of Monday's late match between the 2014 champion at Charleston (and 2009 Gastein champ), 26 year old 8th seeded #18 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, and
    Meanwhile at Washington, DC, in the 1st round of the Citi Open, 23 year old qualifier #208 (career high #200) Hiroki Kuwata of Japan defeated 24 year old #46 (career high: #43) Alison Riske from Hilton Head, South Carolina, 6-0, 7-5 (Hiroko is shown while defeating Stephanie Dubois in their qualifying final on Sunday).

    In the Washington 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Hiroko will play the winner of Tuesday's match between the 2013 Monterrey champion, 23 year old 5th seeded #24 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia, and 31 year old #122 (career high: #16) Virginie Razzano from Nimes, France.

Baku:

#29 Sorana Cirstea
5' 9" 130lb RH 2H-BH Baku:

#97 Shahar Peer
5' 7" 132lb RH 2H-BH Baku:

#72 Stefanie Voegele
5' 7" 132lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday in Azerbaijan, in the semifinals of the Baku Cup, defeated 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Also on Saturday at Baku, defeated 24 year old #72 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland, 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Elina will play Bojana in the Baku final on Sunday.

    Elina and Bojana have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Elina is 1-0 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 24-17 singles match record in 2014.

    Bojana is 2-0 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 14-17 singles match record this year.

    On Friday in Azerbaijan, in the quarterfinals of the Baku Cup, the 2013 Baku champion, 19 year old 2nd seeded #35 (career high #33) Elina Svitolina from Kharkiv, Ukraine, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the Baku semifinals on Saturday, Elina will play
    Elina and Francesca have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Friday at Baku, the 2013 champ at Tashkent, 22 year old 5th seeded #40 (career high: #34) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia, defeated 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Bojana will play 24 year old #72 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland.

    Bojana and Stefanie are tied at 1-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a hardcourt in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at Copenhagen, when Bojana defeated Stefanie 6-3, 6-4.

    On Thursday in Azerbaijan, in the 2nd round of the Baku Cup, the 2013 Baku champion, 19 year old 2nd seeded #35 (career high #33) Elina Svitolina from Kharkiv, Ukraine, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Elina will play the 2008 champ at Bad Gastein, 28 year old #95 (career high: #40) Pauline Parmentier from Paris, France.

    Elina and Pauline have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Thursday at Baku, 24 year old #72 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (Stefanie is shown while defeating Alexandra Cadantu in the 1st round on Monday).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Stefanie will play the 2009 champ at Guangzhou & Tashkent, 27 year old #97 (career high #11) Shahar Peer from Maccabim, Israel.

    Stefanie and Shahar will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Wednesday in Azerbaijan, in the 2nd round of the Baku Cup, defeated 23 year old #101 (career high: #96) Katarzyna Piter of Poland, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Bojana will play
    After going through qualifying, Misa defeated #37 Magdalena Rybarikova on Tuesday and #120 Urszula Radwanska on Wednesday.

    Bojana and Misa have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Wednesday at Baku, defeated the 2012 finalist at Tashkent, 24 year old qualifier #165 (career high: #84) Vesna Dolonc of Serbia (residence: Moscow, Russia), 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Shahar will play the winner of Thursday's match between the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 24 year old top seeded #29 (career high: #21) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, and 24 year old #72 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland.

    On Tuesday in Azerbaijan, in the 1st round of the Baku Cup, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 24 year old top seeded #29 (career high: #21) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, defeated 19 year old wild card #160 (career high: #135) Ons Jabeur of Tunesia, 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Sorana will play 24 year old #72 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland.

    Sorana leads Stefanie 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round at Wimbledon, when Sorana defeated Stefanie 7-5, 7-6(3).

    Also on Tuesday at Baku, defeated qualifier #193 Nigina Abdurimova of Uzbekistan 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Elina will play
    Elina and Silvia have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Monday in Azerbaijan, in the 1st round of the Baku Cup, defeated 2-6, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Bojana will play
    Also on Monday at Baku, defeated 24 year old #125 (career high: #65) Alexandra Cadantu from Bucharest, Romania, 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Urszula will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Florianopolis (file, March 1):

#32 Klara Zakopalova
5' 5¼" 121lb RH 2H-BH Bad Gastein (file, July 11):

#138 (lw, tw #114) Grace Min
5' 4" 140lb RH 2H-BH Båstad:

#168 Anett Kontaveit
?'?" ?lb RH 2H-BH Birmingham (file, June 9):

#74 Francesca Schiavone
5' 5½" 141lb RH 1H-BH Båstad:

#66 Kaia Kanepi
5'11" 163lb RH 2H-BH Budapest:

#67 Chanelle Scheepers
5'9" 146lb RH 2H-BH Båstad:
#62 Mona Barthel
6'1" 154lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Båstad, Sweden, in the final of the Collector Swedish Open, the highest ranked player remaining in the tourney, defeated the 2011 champion at Guangzhou, 30 year old #80 (career high: #37) Chanelle Scheepers from Harrismith, South Africa, 6-3, 7-6(3) (Mona is shown during her semifinal victory on Saturday).

    Mona's prize is $43,000; Chanelle's prize is $19,400.

    Mona and Chanelle are now tied at 2-2 in career matches.. Their previous meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round at Hobart, when Mona defeated Chanelle 7-6(3), 7-5.

    Mona is now 3-1 in WTA singles finals, and has a 25-20 singles match record in 2014.

    Chanelle is now 1-1 in WTA singles finals, and has a 19-17 singles match record this season.

    Meanwhile in Turkey, in the final of the Istanbul Cup, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (Caroline is shown after defeating Naomi Broady in the 2nd round at Wimbledon this year).

    Caroline's prize is $43,000; Roberta's prize is $19,400.

    Caroline and Roberta are now tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their previous meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 2nd round at Madrid, when Roberta defeated Caroline 6-3, 6-3.

    Caroline is now 22-13 in WTA singles finals, and has a 26-11 singles match record in 2014.

    Roberta is now 9-3 in WTA singles finals, and has a 23-17 singles match record for the year.

    On Saturday at Båstad, Sweden, in the semifinals of the Collector Swedish Open, the highest ranked player remaining in the tourney, the 2012 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 24 year old #62 (career high: #23) Mona Barthel from Neumunster, Germany, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the Båstad final on Sunday, Mona will play the 2011 champion at Guangzhou, 30 year old #80 (career high: #37) Chanelle Scheepers from Harrismith, South Africa.

    Chanelle leads Mona 2-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round at Hobart, when Mona defeated Chanelle 7-6(3), 7-5.

    Mona is 2-1 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 24-20 singles match record in 2014.

    Chanelle is 1-0 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 19-16 singles match record this season.

    Meanwhile in Turkey, in the semifinals of the Istanbul Cup, the 2013 champ at Luxembourg, 24 year old top seeded #15 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Caroline is shown after defeating Naomi Broady in the 2nd round at Wimbledon this year).

    In the Istanbul final on Sunday, Caroline will play the 2013 Katowice and Palermo champion (and last week's finalist at Bucharest), 31 year old 2nd seeded #24 (career high: #13) Roberta Vinci from Taranto, Italy.

    Roberta leads Caroline 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 2nd round at Madrid, when Roberta defeated Caroline 6-3, 6-3.

    Caroline is 21-13 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 25-11 singles match record in 2014.

    Roberta is 9-2 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 23-16 singles match record for the year.

    On Friday at Båstad, Sweden, in the quarterfinals of the Collector Swedish Open, the highest ranked player remaining in the tourney, the 2012 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 24 year old #62 (career high: #23) Mona Barthel from Neumunster, Germany, defeated 6-2, 7-6(4) (photo shown).

    Mona said: "That was a really tough match, especially in the second set. It was really close and [Kaia] served for the set. I'm pretty happy I stayed tough in these moments, believed in myself and just kept going for my shots. I played a really good tie-break in the end and I think this made the difference." WTA story

    In the Båstad semifinals on Saturday, Mona will play 26 year old #79 (career high: #60) Silvia Soler-Espinosa of Spain.

    Mona and Silvia have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Meanwhile in Turkey, in the quarterfinals of the Istanbul Cup, the 2013 champ at Luxembourg, 24 year old top seeded #15 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-1, 3-6, 6-2 (Caroline is shown after defeating Naomi Broady in the 2nd round at Wimbledon this year).

    In the Istanbul semifinals on Saturday, Caroline will play 21 year old #103 (career high: #37) Kristina Mladenovic of France (residence: Saint Pol sur Mer, SUI).

    Caroline and Kristina have met only once before, earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Monterrey, when Caro defeated Kristina 6-3, 6-4.

    On Thursday in Turkey, in the 2nd round of the Istanbul Cup, defeated 7-6(5), 6-2 (Kurumi is shown after defeating Anna Tatishvili in the 1st round of this year's French Open).

    In the Istanbul quarterfinals on Friday, Kurumi will play
    Kurumi and Roberta have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile at Båstad, Sweden, in the 2nd round of the Collector Swedish Open, the 2013 Brussels champ, 29 year old #66 (career high: #16) Kaia Kanepi from Haapsalu, Estonia, defeated qualifier #153 Richel Hogenkamp of the Netherlands, 6-3, 6-1 (Kaia is shown during her 1st round win on Tuesday).

    Kaia said: "I was fresher today than in my first round, because I had a day off yesterday, and I thought I played pretty well. I had a few problems with my service rhythm in the first set, but when that started working I played much better." WTA story

    In the Båstad quarterfinals on Friday, Kaia will play the highest ranked player remaining in the tourney, the 2012 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 24 year old #62 (career high: #23) Mona Barthel from Neumunster, Germany.

    Kaia and Mona will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Wednesday in Turkey, in the 2nd round of the Istanbul Cup, the 2013 champ at Luxembourg, 24 year old top seeded #15 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated (Caroline is shown after defeating Naomi Broady in the 2nd round at Wimbledon this year).

    Caroline said: "[Karin] gave me a good fight today. She was competing very well and serving very well. I was a bit low in energy, but I found a way to pull through and am happy that I did." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Caroline will play the winner of Thursday's 2nd round match between and
    Also on Wednesday at Istanbul, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (Francesca is shown while defeating Jie Zheng in the 1st round at Birmingham this year).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Francesca will play
    Francesca and Kristina have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Tuesday at Båstad, Sweden, in the 1st round of the Collector Swedish Open, 18 year old qualifier #168 (career high: #161) Anett Kontaveit of Estonia defeated a late entry wild card, the 2014 finalist at Dubai (and 2013 champ at Strasbourg), 24 year old top seeded #21 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, 7-6(3), 6-3 (Anett is shown after match point).

    Anett said: "Obviously I was really nervous playing [Alize]. She's such a good player. I had to stay there mentally every point. It was really tough. I had to stay aggressive and control the points, and I managed to do that really well. I'm extremely happy with the way I played." WTA story

    Five of the eight seeded players lost in the 1st round at Båstad on Monday and Tuesday. 5 other players who would have been seeded, including #1 Serena Williams, withdrew from the tourney before it began.

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Anett will play 21 year old #70 (career high: #61) Jana Cepelova from Kosice, Slovakia.

    Anett and Jana have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Båstad, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Johanna led 4-1 in the 3rd set, but Kaia then won 6 of the next 7 games to take the match.

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Kaia will play
    Kaia and Richel will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Monday at Båstad, Sweden, in the 1st round of the Collector Swedish Open, defeated 6-0, 6-4 (Grace is shown while defeating Karolina Pliskova in the Gastein quarterfinals).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Grace will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and #131 Alexandra Panova of Russia.

    Meanwhile at Istanbul, Turkey, in the 1st round of the Istanbul Cup, defeated the 2013 Birmingham finalist, 18 year old #72 (career high: #62) Donna Vekic from Osijek, Croatia, 4-6, 6-0, 6-4 (Klara is shown while defeating Garbi Muguruza in this year's Florianopolis final).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Klara will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    The Istanbul Cup was not held from 2011 through 2013, the WTA Championships were held in Istanbul during those three years. The Istanbul Cup returns for 2014.

    The Istanbul Cup was not held from 2011 through 2013, the WTA Championships were held in Istanbul during those three years. The Istanbul Cup returns for 2014.
    On Saturday at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the semifinals of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, defeated 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 (Andrea is shown during her post match press conference).

    In the Gastein final on Sunday, Andrea will play
    Andrea and Shelby have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Andrea is 3-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 28-14 singles match record in 2014.

    Shelby is playing in her first WTA singles final. She reached her first WTA quarterfinal this week. She hs won 4 ITF singles titles. Shelby has a 14-16 singles match record this season.

    Meanwhile in Romania, in the semifinals of the Bucharest Open, defeated her compatriot, 6-2, 4-6, 6-1 (Simona is shown at this weeks Bucharest players party).

    In the Bucharest final on Sunday, Simona will play
    Simona leads Roberta 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round at 's-Hertogenbosch, when Simona defeated Roberta 6-0, 6-1.

    Simona is 7-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 25-10 singles match record this year.

    Roberta is 9-1 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 11-17 singles match record for the season.

    On Friday at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the quarterfinals of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, the 2014 champion at Charleston (and 2009 Gastein champ), 26 year old 4th seeded #20 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "I played very well and am getting better with every match. I'm really happy how everything has turned out so far, especially considering that I just arrived from Wimbledon a couple of days ago. At first, it felt like skating on ice when I first went on the clay courts here, but now I'm getting used to it much more." WTA story

    In the Gastein semifinals on Saturday, Andrea will play 20 year old #135 (career high: #128) Grace Min from Boca Raton, Florida.

    Grace will be playing in her first WTA singles semifinal. Andrea and Grace have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Meanwhile in Romania, in the quarterfinals of the Bucharest Open, the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 22 year old top seeded #3 (career high: #3) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated #22 year old #122 (career high: #75) Lara Arruabarrena from Barcelona, Spain, 6-3, 6-1 (Simona is shown while defeating Sabine Lisicki in this year's Wimbledon quarterfinals).

    In the Bucharest quarterfinals on Saturday, Simona will play her compatriot, the 2012 finalist at Luxembourg, 26 year old #67 (career high: #28) Monica Niculescu from Bucharest, Romania.

    Simona and Monica have met only once before, in 2012 on red clay in the 2nd round at Brussels, when Simona defeated Monica 6-1, 6-1.

    On Thursday in Romania, in the 2nd round of the Bucharest Open, the 2014 champion at Doha (and French Open finalist), 22 year old top seeded #3 (career high: #3) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (Simona is shown at the Bucharest players party on Wednesday).

    In the Bucharest quarterfinals on Friday, Simona will play 22 year old #122 (career high: #75) Lara Arruabarrena from Barcelona, Spain.

    Simona leads Lara 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 2nd round at Madrid, when Simona defeated Lara 6-4, 6-4.

    Meanwhile at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the 2nd round of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, defeated 23 year old wild card #326 (career high: #308) Lisa-Marie Moser of Austria, 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the Gastein quarterfinals on Friday, Camila will play
    Shelby will be playing in her first WTA singles quarterfinal. Camila and Shelby have met only once before, in 2011 on a hardcourt in the 2nd round of an ITF tourney at Rock Hill, when Camila defeated Shelby 6-3, 6-4.

    On Wednesday at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the 2nd round of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, defeated 22 year old #116 (career high: #99) Dinah Pfizenmaier from Kamen, Germany, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "I was focused from the very beginning. That doesn't happen often. At Wimbledon, I started badly in every match. But today I played well throughout the whole match...
    "I feel very good on the court here once I get used to the high altitude after a couple of matches. It suits my game very well." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Andrea will play
    Andrea leads Stefanie 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was about six weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Roland Garros, when Petko defeated Stefanie 6-2, 4-6, 6-2.

    Andrea said: "Stefanie is a very good player. We had a very tough match in Roland Garros. She hits the ball early and has a strong serve. I need to be aggressive and serve just as well, and then we'll see what happens."

    Also on Wednesday at Bad Gastein, defeated qualifier #315 Ana Bogdan of Romania, 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Karolina will play
    Karolina and Grace have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles). Grace will be playing in her first WTA singles quarterfinal.

    On Tuesday at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the 1st round of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 4th seeded #20 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 7-6(8), 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Andrea will play 22 year old #116 (career high: #99) Dinah Pfizenmaier from Kamen, Germany.

    Andrea and Dinah have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Bad Gastein, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Camila will play
    Camila and Lisa-Marie will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Monday in Romania, in the 1st round of the Bucharest Open, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (Monica is shown while defeating Sabine Lisicki in the 2nd round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Monica will play either 23 year old #144 (career high: #135) Alize Lim from Paris, France, or qualifier n260 Elitsa Kostova of Bulgaria.

    Meanwhile at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the 1st round of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, defeated 7-6(0), 6-2 (Stefanie is shown while defeating Anna-Lena Friedsam in the 1st round of this year's French Open).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Stefanie will play either or
Wimbledon:

#2 Na Li
5'7¾" 143lb RH 2H-BH Wimbledon:

#43 Barbora Zahlavova Strycova
5'4½" 132½lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at London, England, in the final of The Championships at Wimbledon, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (Genie is shown during the match; Petra is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Petra struck 28 winners (including 4 aces) with 12 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 13 break points she reached against Genie and totaling 61 points in the match. Genie hit 8 winners (1 ace) with 4 unforced errors (2 DFs) while converting the one break point she reached against Petra and totaling 37 points. match stats *

    Petra's prize is £1,760,000 (about $3,016,209 US); Genie's prize is £880,000 (about $1,508,104 US).
    Petra said: "To be back here with the trophy is so special. I have to say thank to everyone who supports me all the time, it is a special time for me. Hopefully it will be good for everyone in the Czech Republic to have a second trophy. It is my second title so I hope it will be a little bit easier for me to handle." BBC story

    Petra and Genie had met only once before, in August of last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Toronto, when Petra defeated Genie 6-3, 6-2.

    2011 Wimbledon champ Petra is now 12-4 in WTA singles finals, and 2-0 Grand Slam finals. Petra has a 25-10 singles match record in 2014.

    2012 Wimbledon juniors champ Genie is now 1-2 in WTA singles finals. She was playing in her first Grand Slam singles final (she lost in the semis at Melbourne and Roland Garros this year). Genie has a 36-14 singles match record this season.

    * Note: Wimbledon statistics tend to substantially understate the number of unforced errors (compared to other tourneys).

    Sunday Men's Final: s1 Novak Djokovic SRB v s4 Roger Federer SUI

    On Thursday at London, England, in the semifinals of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and a 2014 Roland Garros & Australian Open semifinalist), 20 year old 13th seeded #13 (career high: #13) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 7-6(5), 6-2 (photo shown).

    Genie struck 20 winners (including 2 aces) with 23 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 3 of the 9 break points she reached against Simona and totaling 81 points in the match. Simona hit 13 winners (1 ace) with 23 unforced errors (5 DFs) while converting 1 of her 2 break points against Genie and totaling 66 points. match stats

    Genie said: "I'm just happy I kept my focus and didn't get distracted or anything and played well in the last game... I'm not surprised to be in the final, because I've put in a lot of hard work and it's been years in the making. I believe in myself and I expect good results and I always want more. I've had a good start to the season, but I expect myself to do even better than that and that's what I'm going to try and do." WTA story

    In Thursday's other semifinal,, the 2011 Wimbledon champion, 24 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 7-6(6), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Petra struck 24 winners (including 8 aces) with 13 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 3 of the 6 break points she reached against Lucie and totaling 71 points in the match. Lucie hit 18 winners (4 aces) with 7 unforced errors (2 DFs) while converting 1 of her 2 break points against Petra and totaling 58 points. match stats

    Petra said: "It's great, definitely. I don't have the words to describe how I'm feeling right now. It was a tough match mentally, because Lucie is a good friend of mine. We know each other very well on and off the court. And I knew she was going to play very well. I'm just very happy I won and am in the final again.

    "I tried to be focused from the beginning of the second set. After I won the tie-break, I broke her in the first game of the second set and I managed to keep it going and serve well until the end." WTA story

    Petra will play Genie in the Wimbledon finals on Saturday.

    Petra and Genie have met only once before, in August of last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Toronto, when Petra defeated Genie 6-3, 6-2.

    2011 Wimbledon champ Petra is 11-4 in previous WTA singles finals. She is playing in her second Grand Slam singles final. Petra has a 24-10 singles match record in 2014.

    2012 Wimbledon juniors champ Genie is 1-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She is playing in her first Grand Slam singles final (she lost in the semis at Melbourne and Roland Garros). Genie has a 36-13 singles match record this season.

    Genie said: "It's my first Grand Slam final so I'm just going to go for it. I'll probably have my toughest match yet and I'm looking forward to the challenge. [Petra will] go in prepared and I'll be prepared as well. My coach will definitely watch her play and give me some tips. I'm just going to go out there and play my game. I think I can play even better today. I want to leave it all on court and we'll see what happens."

    Petra said: "I will just try my best out there. I know the feeling when you hold the trophy, and I really want to win my second title here and I will do everything that I can."

    Sunday Men's Final: s1 Novak Djokovic SRB v s4 Roger Federer SUI

    On Wednesday at London, England, in the quarterfinals of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and a 2014 Roland Garros & Australian Open semifinalist), 20 year old 13th seeded #13 (career high: #13) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Genie struck 29 winners (including 4 aces) with 20 unforced errors (including 4 double faults) while scoring on 3 of the 13 break points she reached against Angelique and totaling 68 points in the match. Angelique hit 17 winners (1 ace) with 14 unforced errors (3 DFs) while converting 1 of her 8 break points against Genie and totaling 58 points. match stats

    Genie said: "I'm happy to be able to pull it out in the end. I was really trying to stay in the moment and knew I couldn't think ahead. At the end, I had a few bad errors but also a few good aggressive shots." WTA story

    Also on Wednesday at Wimbledon, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #3) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Simona struck 16 winners (including 3 aces) with 11 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 8 of the 8 break points she reached against Sabine and totaling 63 points in the match. Sabine hit 17 winners (2 aces) with 20 unforced errors (3 DFs) while converting 1 of her 2 break points against Simona and totaling 40 points. match stats

    Simona trailed 1-4 in the 1st set, then won the 11 remaining games to take the match.

    Simona said: "[Sabine] had 4-1 and then I came very well back. I played my best today and I was enjoying every moment, because it was incredible on Centre Court." AP story

    Simona will play Genie in the Wimbledon semifinals on Thursday.

    Simona and Genie have met only once before, in March of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 4th round at Indian Wells, when Simona defeated Genie 6-2, 1-6, 6-4.

    Genie said: "I'm excited about the match. [Simona is] a very good player. So I'm definitely ready for tough match and ready to go one step further."

    In Thursday's other semifinal, the 2011 Wimbledon champion, 24 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, will play her compatriot the 2013 Quebec City champ, 27 year old 26th seeded #28 (career high: #21) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic.

    Petra leads Lucie 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was two weeks ago on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round at Eastbourne, when Petra defeated Lucie 6-1, 5-7, 7-6(4).

    On Tuesday at London, England, in the 4th round of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2014 (and 2012) Eastbourne finalist, 26 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 7-6(4), 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Angelique won on her 7th match point. Angelique said: "It's unbelievable. It was such a tough match. We were playing on a really high level, and it was so close. Every single set was so close. I'm just happy I won the match. Maria is a great player and plays so well on grass, so this is really just unbelievable...

    "When I had the three match points at 0-40 I was just trying to focus on myself, play my game and stay aggressive. In the end it worked, and I'm happy I won this battle and am in the quarterfinals now." WTA story

    Maria said: "I think there were a few little key moments in each set that I can learn from. I was up in the tie-breaker and didn't follow through. It was great to come back in that second. But I had a really slow start in the third, and she rode with that confidence. It was just a few points at the end of that. Maybe things would've been different if I won that game, but in the end I didn't win that game. I did everything I could in the end to save those match points, but I didn't save the last one."

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Angelique will play the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist), 20 year old 18th seeded #19 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Genie and Angelique are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was four weeks ago on red clay in the 4th round at Roland Garros, when Genie defeated Angelique 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Tuesday at Wimbledon, in the first quarterfinal of the tournament, the 2013 Quebec City champ, 27 year old 26th seeded #28 (career high: #21) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Thursday, Lucie will play her compatriot, the 2011 Wimbledon champion, 24 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Petra leads Lucie 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was two weeks ago on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round at Eastbourne, when Petra defeated Lucie 6-1, 5-7, 7-6(4).

    On Monday at London, England, in the 4th round of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist), 20 year old 13th seeded #13 (career high: #13) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 7-6(5), 7-5 (photo shown).

    Genie said: "I'm really excited to win... [Alize is] a really good player and got back a lot of balls... I'm very excited to be in another major quarterfinal, but I need to stay focused. It's important not to be distracted and take it one match at a time. But, of course, I want to go further." WTA story

    Alize defeated # 1 Serena Williams on Saturday (her 2nd straight match win against the 5-time Wimbledon champ).

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Genie will play the winner of Tuesday's rain-postponed match between the 2004 tourney champion (and 2014 champ at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart), 27 year old 5th seeded #5 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), and the 2014 (and 2012) Eastbourne finalist, 26 year old 9th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    Maria leads Angelique 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the semifinals at Stuttgart, when Maria defeated Angelique 6-3, 2-6, 7-5.

    Also on Monday at Wimbledon, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "I was focusing on every point. It was pretty close from the beginning, and when I broke her it got me more relaxed, and I was able to play my game. I'm just glad that I won." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Petra will play
    Petra leads Barbora 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Petra defeated Barbora 6-1, 6-3.

    On Saturday at London, England, in the 3rd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, defeated 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    The match ended on two errors by Serena. Alize said: "[Serena] helped me a little bit, because he did two big mistakes. I think she was nervous as well; she's just a human, like everybody, and that's what I was thinking about." interview video

    It was Alize's second straight win over Serena; she also defeated the #1 in this year's semifinals at Dubai, 6-4, 6-4.

    Serena said: "Alize kept her unforced errors really low. She was going for her shots. She played really well today."

    In the 4th round on Monday, Alize will play the 2014 champ at Nuremberg (and a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist), 20 year old 18th seeded #19 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Alize and Genie have met only once before, last year on red clay in the semifinals at Strasbourg, when Alize, on her way to the title defeated Genie 7-5, 6(7)-7, 6-3.

    Also on Saturday at Wimbledon, the 2004 tourney champion (and 2014 champ at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart), 27 year old 5th seeded #5 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Maria trailed 1-3 in the 1st set, then won the last 11 games of the match.

    Maria said: "I didn't want to get broken in the first game, but besides that break point I lost on my serve I didn't face another one throughout the match, so I was quite pleased about that... Overall [Alison] can be a dangerous player on grass. She has proved that before. Even though we played a long time ago, it was a three set match, and going into this one I knew that I had to be there... I thought I did a good job of maintaining my focus until the end." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Maria will play the 2014 (and 2012) Eastbourne finalist, 26 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    Maria leads Angelique 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the semifinals at Stuttgart, when Maria defeated Angelique 6-3, 2-6, 7-5.

    On Friday at London, England, in the 2nd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, defeated the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 32 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, China, 7-6(5), 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    Barbora said: "I thought I can do it and that's what happened... I was serving very well. I was following the tactics that my coach gave me and I think that was the key." WTA story

    Na said: "[In] the important moments, I was always waiting, waiting and wishing my opponent would make a mistake. It didn't work." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Barbora will play
    Caro leads Barbora 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Caroline defeated Barbora 6-4, 6-0.

    Also on Friday at Wimbledon, defeated 5-7, 7-6(2), 7-5 (Petra is shown after match point).

    The win raised Petra's record against Venus to 4-1.

    In the 4th round on Monday, Petra will play
    Petra leads Shuai 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Roland Garros, when Petra defeated Shuai 6-4, 6-3.

    Two more Czechs advanced to the 4th round at Wimbledon on Friday (for a total of four), as n23 s23 Lucie Safarova CZE d n10 s10 Dominika Cibulkova SVK 6-4, 6-2, and n174 q Tereza Smitkova CZE d n45 Bojana Jovanovski SRB 4-6, 7-6(5), 10-8.

    On Thursday at London, England, in the 2nd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2004 tourney champion (and 2014 champ at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart), 27 year old 5th seeded #5 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "The first couple of matches are really crucial, in terms of working on so many things as a grass court player, and trying to make that transition from clay as quickly as possible. The grass is quite different from the practice courts. Once you get out there, you try to focus a little bit more on executing better and not letting your focus go." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Maria will play 23 year old #44 (career high: #43) Alison Riske from Hilton Head, South Carolina.

    Maria and Alison have met only once before, in 2010 on an chlorophyll court in the semifinals at Birmingham, when Maria defeated Alison, who does very well on grass, 6-2, 4-6, 6-1.

    Also on Thursday at Wimbledon, the 2002, '03, '09 '10 & '12 Wimbledon champion (and 2014 Rome, Miami & Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I felt OK today. I just had a goal and trying to do better each day... I don't want to feel great necessarily right now because hopefully I have several more matches I can play. But the goal for me is just to feel a little better every day." AP story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Serena will play the 2014 finalist at Dubai (and 2013 champ at Strasbourg), 24 year old 25th seeded #25 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Serena leads Alize 3-1 in career matches. Alize's win came in their most recent meeting: earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Dubai, when Alize defeated Serena 6-4, 6-4.

    On Wednesday at London, England, in the 2nd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 32 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, China, defeated the 2013 champ at Bad Gastein, 30 year old #38 (career high: #37) Yvonne Meusburger from Schwarzach, Austria, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Na said: "I think the second round was better than the first [d #175 Kania 7-5, 6-2] because I already had a match under my belt. Before my first round, I hadn't played in a month, so I was rusty. In the second match, I felt more comfortable about where the ball was going." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Na will play
    Na leads Barbora 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Na defeated Barbora 6-3, 6(8)-7, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Wimbledon, the 2014 champion at Dubai (and 2000, '01, '05 '07 & '08 Wimbledon champion), 34 year old 30th seeded #30 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 7-6(4), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Venus said: "Walking out there you know no one's going to give you a match, especially at the majors, so I knew all points I would have to work for. I think I was able to lift my game a little at the important points, which is what you want to do. Then also in the second set I lifted my game."

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Venus will play the 2011 Wimbledon champion, 24 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Petra leads Venus 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Petra defeated Venus 6-2, 2-6, 7-6(7).

    Petra said: "Venus... likes the grass, and I'm totally the same. And I'm looking forward to this match. I think it's going to be a great fight. We played in Doha I think, and then in Tokyo, and it's always a very tough match, so I'm expecting the same thing here." WTA story

    And also on Wednesday at Wimbledon, defeated 6-3, 3-6, 7-5.

    Victoria has played in only three tourneys, and won one match, since she was sidelined by a left foot bone bruise in January.

    On Tuesday at London, England, in the 1st round of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2004 tourney champion (and 2014 champ at Roland Garros, Madrid & Stuttgart), 27 year old 5th seeded #5 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 27 year old wild card #242 (career high: #165) Samantha Murray from Altrincham, England, 6-1, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "It was obviously a bit slower start than I wanted, but I think as the match progressed, I got more comfortable, found my toss a little bit better. I think my serve percentage went up, which was quite important considering she did want to play an aggressive game off of the second serves." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Maria will play 25 year old qualifier #86 (career high: #37) Timea Bacsinszky from Belmont-sur-Lausanne, Switzerland.

    Maria and Timea have met only once before, in 2006 on an indoor hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Zurich, when Maria defeated Timea 6-4, 6-3.

    Also on Tuesday at Wimbledon, the 2002, '03, '09 '10 & '12 Wimbledon champion (and 2014 Rome, Miami & Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 24 year old #114 Anna Tatishvili of Georgia (residence: Boca Raton, Florida), 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Serena will play the 2011 champion at Guangzhou, 30 year old #97 (career high: #37) Chanelle Scheepers from Harrismith, South Africa.

    Serena leads Chanelle 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Stanford, when Serena defeated Chanelle 6-4, 6-0.

    On Monday at London, England, in the 1st round of The Championships at Wimbledon, the 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ, 24 year old 8th seeded #8 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    It was Victoria's first win since she was sidelined by a left foot bone bruise in January.

    Victoria said: "I'm just very happy to be able to play. This is what I love to do. It's such a great feeling to play without pain and that's what's important for me at the moment...

    "I think getting the game together and the timing is a long process. But the important thing is that I'm there and feeling 100%. My focus is there. My desire and concentration is there. So that's all I can ask for in myself." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Vika will play the 2013 champ at Tashkent, 22 year old #45 (career high: #34) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia.

    Vika and Bojana have met only once before, in 2010 on the same chlorophyll courts in the 2nd round at Wimbledon, when Victoria defeated Bojana 6-1, 6-4.

    Also on Monday at Wimbledon, the 2014 champion at Dubai (and 2000, '01, '05 '07 & '08 Wimbledon champion), 34 year old 30th seeded #30 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 22 year old #53 (career high: #53) Maria-Teresa Torro-Flor from Villena, Spain, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Venus said: "I think my opponent played amazingly. She just was playing so well, going for everything. So it was definitely a challenge today against someone who is just playing such inspired tennis...

    "Obviously, it feels good to win. I mean, it feels good to play well against an opponent who is playing well and advance to the next round. That always helps for the first match on a new surface." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play the 2014 champion at Rio de Janeiro, 22 year old #40 (career high: #40) Kurumi Nara from Hyogo, Japan.

    Venus and Kurumi have never before met on the field of combat.

Oeiras:
#32 Elena Vesnina
5'7¾" 132lb RH 2H-BH Eastbourne:

#69 Heather Watson
5' 7" 138lb RH 2H-BH 's-Hertogenbosh:

#75 Coco Vandeweghe
6'1" 155lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Eastbourne, England, in the final of the AEGON International, won her first WTA singles title by defeating 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Madison's prize is $120,000; Angelique's prize is $64,000.

    Madison struck 17 aces in the match; her fastest serve was at 126 miles per hour, top speed in the WTA this year.

    Madison said: "It's absolutely incredible to be able to win this tournament with so many other greats. Hopefully there's plenty more to come. I was just trying to stay calm and not overthink it... Even right now my hands are still shaking. I'm just really excited." AP story

    Angelique said: "It's not easy when somebody is serving like she did the whole match, but I was trying, and I think I had some good returns, but it was tough to battle. Like I said before the match, she is really dangerous. She's young and she has a great talent, so she'll be dangerous in the future." WTA story

    Angie still leads Madison 2-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the semifinals at Sydney, when Angelique defeated Madison 6-4, 6-2.

    Madison was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has also won 3 ITF singles titles. Madison has a 22-14 singles match record this year.

    Angelique is now 3-8 in WTA singles finals; all of her titles were won indoors. Angelique has a 30-14 singles match record in 2014.

    On Saturday at 's-Hertogenbosh (aka Den Bosch or Rosmalen), Netherlands, in the final of the Topshelf Open, won her first WTA singles title by defeating 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Coco's prize is $43,000; Jie's prize is $19,400.

    Coco said: "I was trying not to think about it being a final today. I got the first set and I thought to myself, 'One set to the good, one more to go, try and get the early break now and keep the pressure on her.' I was really just thinking about it step by step, just like how I would play in any match." WTA story

    Coco is now 1-1 in WTA singles finals. She has a 17-12 singles match record this year.

    Jie is now 4-3 in WTA singles finals (and has also won 15 WTA doubles titles). She has a 11-11 singles match record for the season.

    On Friday at Eastbourne, England, in the semifinals of the AEGON International, the 2013 Linz champion (and 2012 Eastbourne finalist), 26 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 3-6, 7-6(3), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Angelique said: "Caroline is tough opponent, and I think we played tough match and a really high level. I enjoyed it out there and I'm happy to be in the final. I'm feeling very good on grass and I like the surface. It suits my game." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Eastbourne, 19 year old #42 (career high: #36) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Madison will play Angelique in the Eastbourne final on Saturday.

    Angie leads Madison 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the semifinals at Sydney, when Angelique defeated Madison 6-4, 6-2.

    Angelique is 3-7 in previous WTA singles finals; all of her titles were won indoors. Angelique has a 30-13 singles match record in 2014.

    Madison is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has won 3 ITF singles titles. Madison has a 21-14 singles match record this year.

    On Saturday at 's-Hertogenbosh (aka Den Bosch or Rosmalen), Netherlands, in the final of the Topshelf Open, the 2012 Stanford finalist, 22 year old qualifier #75 (career high: #75) Coco Vandeweghe from Rancho Santa Fe, California, will play the 2011 Auckland champ, 30 year old #90 (career high: #15) Jie Zheng from Chengdu, Sichuan, China.

    Coco is 0-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 16-12 singles match record this year.

    Jie is 4-2 in previous WTA singles finals (and has also won 15 WTA doubles titles). She has a 11-10 singles match record for the season.

    On Thursday at Eastbourne, England, in the quarterfinals of the AEGON International, the 2009 Eastbourne champion (and the 2013 champ at Luxembourg), 23 year old 8th seeded #16 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6(7)-7, 6-4, 6-2 (Caro is shown after match point).

    Caroline said: "It was a really tough match. Camila played really well. I really had to be focused out there. She hits the ball very hard and flat and has some good serves. This was a good win for me." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Caroline will play the 2013 Linz and 2012 Paris Indoor champion, 26 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    Angie leads Caro 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Tokyo, when Angelique defeated Caroline 6-4, 7-6(5).

    Also on Thursday at Eastbourne, 19 year old #42 (career high: #36) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida, defeated 20 year old qualifier #61 (career high: #55) Lauren Davis from Gates Mills, Ohio, 6-2, 6-1 (Madison is also shown after match point).

    In the semifinals on Friday, Madison will play
    Madison and Heather have met only once before, last year on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round at Wimbledon, when Madison defeated Heather 6-3, 7-5.

    Madison said: "We know each other really well. We played each other last year at Wimbledon. It was a close match. She's obviously been playing very well. I think it will be a really close match."

    On Wednesday at Eastbourne, England, in the 2nd round of the AEGON International, defeated 6(6)-7, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Heather said: "I think it's probably the biggest win of my career. Flavia's a great player so I knew it wasn't going to be easy." BBC story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Heather will play
    Heather and Petra have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Wednesday at Eastbourne, 19 year old #42 (career high: #36) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida, defeated 7-5, 7-6(9) (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Madison will play 20 year old qualifier #61 (career high: #55) Lauren Davis from Gates Mills, Ohio.

    Lauren leads Madison 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Lauren defeated Madison 6-1, 5-7, 7-6(7).

    On Tuesday at Eastbourne, England, in the 1st round of the AEGON International, defeated 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Vika was playing in only her second match since January due to a lingering left foot bone bruise.

    Camila said: "It was a great match. I really enjoyed it. Today I was just focused on my game like always. I just tried to play aggressively out there, and that's all. I was just thinking about my game." WTA story

    Victoria said: "That's exactly what I wanted. I wanted to have a competitive match. I wanted to test myself, to play for a long time, see how my body is going to react.
    "I'm pretty pleased with what happened. Obviously the result is the result, but that's a beginning. It's a starting point. There are a lot of positive things that I can take from what happened today." AP story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Camila will play a local resident, 23 year old wild card #110 (career high: #102) Johanna Konta of Great Britain.

    Camila and Johanna have met only once before, in 2012 on a clay court in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at Plantation, Florida, when Johanna defeated Camila 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Tuesday at Eastbourne, the 2014 champion at Indian Wells, 32 year old 6th seeded #11 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland), defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Flavia will play the winner of Tuesday's late match between and 21 year old wild card #69 (career high: #39) Heather Watson from Guernsey, England.

    On Monday at Eastbourne, England, in the 1st round of the AEGON International, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (Elena is shown prior to the Oeiras player party this year).

    On Wednesday in the 2nd round at Eastbourne, Elena will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Meanwhile at 's-Hertogenbosh (aka Den Bosch or Rosmalen), Netherlands, in the 1st round of the Topshelf Open, defeated 22 year old Dutch wild card #250 (career high: #243) Lesley Kerkhove, 6-4, 6-2 (Garbi is going for a ride at Rosmalen on Sunday).

    On Wednesday in the 2nd round at 's-Hertogenbosh, Garbine will play
    Garbi and Mona are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on the same chlorophyll courts in the 1st round at 's-Hertogenbosh, when Garbine defeated Mona 7-5, 1-6, 6-2.

Birmingham:

#18 Sloane Stephens
5' 7" 136lb RH 2H-BH Birmingham:

#82 Kimiko Date-Krumm
5' 4" 117lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Birmingham, England, in the semifinals of the AEGON Classic, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Shuai led 2-0 in the 1st set. Ana said: "On grass it can slip away really fast, so I was a little worried at the start. [Shuai is] a great player and I'm sure we'll see plenty more of her in the future. I played myself into the match slowly. I could have served better but I also did a lot of things well and didn't give her many chances, which is important as she's a dangerous player. I'm just happy to play here. It's great preparation for Wimbledon and I'm glad to have got so many matches in on the grass." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Birmingham, defeated 7-6(5), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Barbora trailed 1-5 in the 1st set tiebreaker, then won the next 6 points, and 6 of the next 7 games, to take the match.

    Ana will play Barbora in the Birmingham final on Sunday.

    Ana leads Barbora 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 3rd round at Indian Wells, when Ana defeated Barbora 6-2, 6-2.

    Ana said: "It would mean a lot for me to have title on grass... Ten years on tour and I have never won a title on grass. That would definitely be something special." tourney story

    On Friday at Birmingham, England, in the quarterfinals of the AEGON Classic, the 2014 champ at Auckland & Monterrey (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old top seeded #12 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I really tried to do my thing, because I know [Klara] can be dangerous, and last time we played, in Doha, I lost. She's won on grass in past and is a great competitor as she showed in her matches this week.

    "I'm serving well, which I'm happy about. Each match is a new challenge and I'm happy I improve with each one." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Birmingham, the 2013 champion at Guangzhou, 25 year old #36 (career high: #34) Shuai Zhang from Tianjin, China, defeated a 2013 Australian Open semifinalist, 21 year old 3rd seeded #19 (career high: #12) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Shuai said: "A few days ago, I said to my coach that I never played well on grass and found it difficult to move. But I'm learning every day how to play on grass a little bit more and hopefully I will get a few more matches to improve." WTA story

    Ana will play Shuai in the Birmingham semifinals on Saturday.

    Ana and Shuai have met only once before, in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Toronto, when Ana defeated Shuai 6-1, 6-1.

    On Thursday at Birmingham, England, in the 3rd round of the AEGON Classic, the 2014 champ at Auckland & Monterrey (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old top seeded #12 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I just felt the ball really good. I timed it well. I knew she's a player who stays low in the grass and it can work well sometimes, so I really tried to stretch her and come forward. I did that well. I served pretty well. I got her out wide a lot and came in, hit some good volleys." tourney story

    In the Birmingham quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play the 2014 champion at Florianopolis (and finalist at Rio & Hobart), 32 year old 6th seeded #30 (career high: #21) Klara Koukalova from Prague, Czech Republic.

    Ana leads Klara 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting earlier this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Klara defeated Ana 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at Birmingham, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Daniela said: "Going into the match, I felt very confident... I had those chances early in the beginning of the first set to maybe break [Kimiko]. But after that she just didn't really give me a chance. I tried everything, and she was hitting lines, moving well, coming to the net, serving unbelievably well. I thought I was always going to have chances on her serve, but today just everything went her way."

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Kimiko will play
    Kimiko leads Casey 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Sydney, when Kimiko defeated Casey 6-4, 6-1.

    On Wednesday at Birmingham, England, in the 2nd round of the AEGON Classic, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Sloane said: "I'm always happy to be back in Birmingham. I love everyone here. It's just like reuniting with family. Obviously I'm playing on grass, which I love, so it's a very comfortable place." tourney story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Sloane will play
    Sloane and Alison have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Wednesday, at Birmingham, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Samantha said: "It was pretty clean all round. I mean, couple little things I would like to try and tidy up, but overall really happy with the way I played out there and the way I felt and all that. So for my first match on grass, I’m pretty happy."

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Samantha will play
    Casey leads Samantha 2-0 in career matches. But they have not met since 2003 when, on a hardcourt in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Dalby, Australia, 18-year-old Casey defeated 19-year-old Samantha 6-3, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Birmingham, England, in the 2nd round of the AEGON Classic, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "It's never easy playing your first match on grass. [Mona] had a match yesterday, so that helped her rhythm. I was really happy to break her back in the middle of the first set. That sort of set the tone and calmed me down. My coach gave me some directions that worked well...

    "I don't have a grass court title. That would be amazing. But that's a long way away. I really enjoy playing each match. It's a very tough field with a big draw. I just want to get some matches in and get into the grass court season." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Ana will play
    Ana and Lauren have met only once before, in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Ana defeated Lauren 6-1, 6-1.

    Also on Tuesday, at Birmingham, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (Daniela is shown while defeating Heather Watson in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Daniela will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
20 year old #41 (career high: #41) Monica Puig of Puerto Rico (residence: Miami, Florida), 17 year old qualifier #298 (career high: #285) Victoria Duval from Bradenton, Florida,     On Monday at Birmingham, England, in the 1st round of the AEGON Classic, 17 year old qualifier #80 (career high: #77) Belinda Bencic from Flawil, Switzerland, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Belinda said: "The first match on grass is always very difficult, so I'm happy to get the win. I found it difficult at first and was framing a lot of balls, But I got better and was pleased with my level at the end." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Belinda will play the 2013 Birmingham champion (and the 2002 & '07 Indian Wells champ), 31 year old 7th seeded #31 (career high: #5) Daniela Hantuchova of Slovakia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Belinda and Daniela have never before met on the field of combat.

    Belinda said: "Next I have Daniela, which will obviously be very tough. I have nothing to lose so I'll just go out there and do my best."

    Also on Monday, at Birmingham, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Francesca will play
    Francesca and Sloane are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round of the US Open, when Sloane defeated Francesca 6-3, 6-4.

Roland Garros:

#57 Anna Schmiedlova
5' 9" 139lb RH 2H-BH Roland Garros:

#71 Ajla Tomljanovic
5' 11" 148lb RH 2H-BH     On Thursday at Roland Garros, in the semifinals of the French Open, defeated 6-4, 6(5)-7, 6-4 (photo shown).

    At 3 hours and 2 minutes, the match was the second longest women's final at Roland Garros since 1975. Maria struck 46 winners (including 3 aces) with 52 unforced errors (including 12 double faults) while scoring on 9 of the 20 break points she reached against Simona and totaling 120 points.
    Simona hit 20 winners (1 ace) with 31 unforced errors (4 double faults) while scoring on 7 of her 13 break points against Maria and totaling 107 points. match stats - BBC "as it happened"


    Maria now leads Simona 4-0 in career matches. Their previous meeting was four weeks ago on red clay in the final at Madrid, when Maria defeated Simona 1-6, 6-2, 6-3.

    Maria is now 32-22 in WTA singles finals, and 5-4 in Grand Slam singles finals. Maria has a 31-6 singles match record in 2014. Maria has lost only 4 matches on clay courts since the 2011 French Open; three losses were to Serena Williams, the fourth loss was to Ana Ivanovic.

    Simona is now 7-5 in WTA singles finals. She was playing in her first Grand Slam singles final. Simona has a 25-8 singles match record this season.

    Sunday Men's Final: s1 Rafael Nadal ESP v s2 Novak Djokavic SRB

    On Thursday at Roland Garros, in the semifinals of the French Open, the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 French Open champ), 27 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 4-6, 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I felt that [Genie] played extremely well, exceptional tennis. I didn't feel that I was playing my best, I fought, I scrambled, and I found a way to win." video

    Genie said: "It was a tough battle... the whole match I didn't play as well as I have played earlier in the tournament... I felt like I was trying to do what I wanted to do, which was be aggressive, go for my shots. But often I constructed the point well and then didn't finish it as well as I could...

    "[Maria is] a great player and always puts a lot of pressure on you. I think she kind of elevated her game a little bit later on in the match... I had a couple chances here and there and just didn't take my opportunities when I had a few of them." interview

    In Thursday's second semifinal, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #5) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-2, 7-6(4) (photo shown).

    Simona said: "It was a very tough match emotionally. I was very nervous... but I was a little bit stronger in the tiebreak... It is an amazing feeling to play the final in a Grand Slam." video

    Andrea said: "I'm very disappointed because I had a lot of chances in the 2nd set. The 1st set Simona played really great tennis, and I had trouble getting into my rhythm... but she played really well. She was taking the ball early, and dominating the game, and playing great angles." video

    Maria will play Simona in the 2014 French Open final on Saturday.

    Maria leads Simona 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was four weeks ago on red clay in the final at Madrid, when Maria defeated Simona 1-6, 6-2, 6-3.

    Maria is 31-22 in previous WTA singles finals, and 4-4 in Grand Slam singles finals. Maria has a 30-6 singles match record in 2014. Maria has lost only 4 matches on clay courts since the 2011 French Open; three losses were to Serena Williams, the fourth loss was to Ana Ivanovic.

    Simona is 7-4 in previous WTA singles finals. She is playing in her first Grand Slam singles final. Simona has a 25-7 singles match record this season.

    Sunday Men's Final: s1 Rafael Nadal ESP v s2 Novak Djokavic SRB

    On Wednesday at Roland Garros, in the quarterfinals of the French Open, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 28th seeded #29 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Andrea is shown after match point).

    Andrea won the first two games of the match, then won 12 of the next 14. Sara failed to hold serve throughout the entire 2nd set.

    Andrea said: "I had a very good game plan from my coach. It didn't work in the beginning... I was kind of getting a little worried, but I trust my coach a great deal, so I told myself 'Stick with it for this set...'. I was lucky that I started playing better, and was putting more balls into play, and then also the game play started working out better." video

    In Wednesday's other quarterfinal, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #5) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Simona is also shown after match point).

    Simona said: "I felt very good on court. It was a perfect day for me. I played really well and stuck to my gameplan. I was very aggressive. I played very fast. So it was a good match, and I'm really happy that now I can play in the semifinals in Paris." WTA story

    Simona will play Andrea in the French Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Simona leads Andrea 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Tokyo, when Simona defeated Andrea 7-6(4), 6-3.

    In Thursday's other semifinal (scheduled first, at 3pm), the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 French Open champ), 27 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), will play a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2013 Osaka finalist), 20 year old 18th seeded #19 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada (both ladies are shown after the match point of their quarterfinals).

    Maria leads Genie 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on the same red clay in the 2nd round of the French Open, when Maria defeated Genie 6-2, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Roland Garros, in the quarterfinals of the French Open, the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 French Open champ), 27 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 1-6, 7-5, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "[Garbine was] playing with such confidence and I knew it was going to be a tough match. I had a tough start but luckily I had a good finish. She was playing so aggressive at the start, but also I wasn't really helping myself with my movement or serving." WTA story

    Also on Tuesday at Paris, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2013 Osaka finalist), 20 year old 18th seeded #19 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 7-6(4), 2-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Genie trailed 1-4 in the 3rd set. Genie said: "[Carla] played really well and is a great clay court player. At the end of the third set I thought I was getting the upper hand began to believe that I could win. I'm just excited to be in the semifinals and to stay a little longer in Paris. I'm just going to enjoy myself in the semifinals." WTA story

    Maria will play Genie in the French Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Maria leads Genie 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on the same red clay in the 2nd round of the French Open, when Maria defeated Genie 6-2, 6-4.

    In the French Open quarterfinals on Wednesday, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 28th seeded #29 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, will play the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 27 year old 10th seeded #11 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Andrea and Sara are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was four weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome, when Sara defeated Petko 7-5, 6-1.

    In Wednesday's other quarterfinal, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #5) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, will play the 2009 French Open (and 2004 US Open) champion, 28 year old 27th seeded #28 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Simona and Svetlana are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was six weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Stuttgart, when Svetlana defeated Simona 7-5, 7-6(4) .

    On Monday at Roland Garros, in the 4th round of the French Open, the 2014 champion at Charleston, 26 year old 28th seeded #29 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 1-6, 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "I was really relieved that I picked myself up after I was up 4-2 in the third and I started playing a little passively. I wasn't going for my shots anymore. I was sort of hoping that she's gonna miss. She's too good for that.

    "After going down 5-4 in the third, I just sort of told myself, 'Okay, listen, you have to play aggressive. You have to go for your shots, and nobody's going to give you the quarterfinals just because you're nice [smiling], so go gain it.' I started playing more aggressively. It paid off in the end." postmatch interview

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Petko will play the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 27 year old 10th seeded #11 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Andrea and Sara are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was four weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome, when Sara defeated Petko 7-5, 6-1.

    Also on Monday at Paris, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #5) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Simona will play the 2009 French Open (and 2004 US Open) champion, 28 year old 27th seeded #28 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Simona and Svetlana are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was six weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Stuttgart, when Svetlana defeated Simona 7-5, 7-6(4) .

    On Sunday at Roland Garros, in the 4th round of the French Open, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2013 Osaka finalist), 20 year old 18th seeded #19 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).
    Genie said: "Today my goal of taking it early worked really well. I was really going for my shots. I felt good out there. I think I executed my game plan really well, so I'm pretty happy with that... There are always things to improve though. I'll try to do even better for my next match." WTA story

    Angelique said: "[Genie is] a great player and she played very well today. I didn't play my best tennis today. I couldn't find my rhythm. I was completely not on the court. I was there and I was trying to come back, but I just wasn't feeling the ball, and it was really tough. I don't really know what happened. But I think she played very well today, so congratulations to her."

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Genie will play the 2014 Oeiras champ, 25 year old 14th seeded #15 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Genie and Carla have met only once before, last year on a chlorophyll court in the 3rd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Carla defeated Genie 7-5, 6-2.

    Also on Sunday at Paris, the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 French Open champ), 27 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 3-6, 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    The win raised Maria's career record against Samantha to 14-2.

    Maria said: "I thought Sam played a really good 1st set, and in that set I had 5 break points, and didn't convert one of them... But overall I'm happy with the way I finished, and think that's the most important thing for me." video

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Maria will play the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old #37 (career high: #34) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain.

    Maria and Garbine have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome, when Maria defeated Garbi 6-2, 6-2.

    On Saturday at Roland Garros, in the 3rd round of the French Open, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Jelena said: "It looked a lot easier than it was out there. Sorana is a very tough player to play against... I'm happy with the way I performed." video

    In the 4th round on Monday, JJ will play the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 27 year old 10th seeded #11 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Sara leads JJ 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was two weeks ago on red clay in the semifinals at Rome, when Sara defeated Jelena 6-3, 7-5.

    Also on Thursday at Paris, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #5) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "This is the third match where I have played really great tennis. It's not a surprise because I'm more confident in myself, and I'm feeling the ball really well here. I love this tournament. I love to be here and I'm enjoying the moment now. It's my best of my career, and I have to be happy on court and to fight for my chance." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Simona will play a 2013 Australian Open semifinalist, 21 year old 15th seeded #16 (career high: #12) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida.

    Sloane leads Simona 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Sloane defeated Simona 6-1, 6-1.

    On Friday at Roland Garros, in the 3rd round of the French Open, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Ajla said: "After seeing the two first seeds go out, you kind of feel like I can do this, too. I grew up with these girls that are beating them. I went out there and I really thought I could win. I think that showed and it is why I got over the line." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Ajla will play the 2014 Oeiras champ, 25 year old 14th seeded #15 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Ajla and Carla have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Friday at Paris, the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 French Open champ), 27 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), crushed, killed and destroyed 6-0, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Maria will play the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad (and the 2011 US Open champion), 30 year old 19th seeded #20 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia.

    Maria leads Samantha 13-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on red clay in the 3rd round at Madrid, when Maria defeated Samantha 6-4, 6-3.

    Maria said: "A lot of [Samantha's] success has come on clay, and despite my record against her and my victory a few weeks ago, this is a new match and I'm sure she's ready... She has a great serve, she uses the court extremely well... It's a good matchup; I look forward to it." video

    On Thursday at Roland Garros, in the 2nd round of the French Open, the 2013 champion at Bogota (and 2007 and 2008 Italian Open champ), 29 year old 6th seeded #7 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 7-5, 6-0 (photo shown).
    Jelena said: "[Kurumi is] always tough to play against. We have been playing the last three Grand Slams against each other... In the first set I think I was playing too short. I wasn't doing enough, especially when she was serving... I did not break her until that game at 5-all...

    "I started playing a little more aggressively in the second set and it made a difference... She gets so many balls back. She doesn't give you many free points, so you have to work your way through. Especially in slow conditions like this, it's not easy. Happy with my win." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, JJ will play the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 24 year old 26th seeded #27 (career high: #21) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania.

    Sori leads JJ 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Toronto, when Sorana defeated Jelena 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Thursday at Paris, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Ana will play
    Lucie leads Ana 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a hardcourt in the Fed Cup final at Prague, when Lucie defeated Ana 6-4, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at Roland Garros, in the 2nd round of the French Open, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).
    Garbine said: "It's my biggest win so far, so amazing... I played her I think two years ago [2013 Australian Open] and was horrible [6-2, 6-0] , because I was so nervous. I said, 'Okay, this time I'm not going to think I'm playing against Serena. I'm going to do what I have to do.' That's what I was thinking all the match." postmatch interview

    Serena said: "I don't think anything worked for me today... I have actually never seen her play like this... I think Garbine played really well and she played really smart. I didn't adapt. It was what it was." postmatch interview

    If Serena had won, she was projected to play her older sister Venus in the 3rd round. However: 19 year old #57 (career high: #56) Anna Schmiedlova from Kosice, Slovakia, defeated 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.

    Anna said: "This is the biggest win of my career... it's a great feeling." video

    Anna will play Garbine in the 3rd round on Friday. Garbine and Anna have met only once before, in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round of the Australian Open, when Garbine defeated Anna 6-3, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Paris, the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 & 2011 Rome champ), 27 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria trailed 2-4 in the 1st set. Maria said: "I started off quite cold, wasn't moving my feet enough and just didn't have a good rhythm. Once I got the break back, I started feeling much better about my game, and I was able to hold that until the end of the match...
    "I think you always have to follow your path and concentrate on your work and who's ahead of you and not get worried about what's going on. Obviously when you go on court you're aware of a lot of the upsets, not just among the women, but with the men as well. So it's great to get a win in that type of atmosphere." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Maria will play either #75 Monica Niculescu or #76 Paula Ormaechea. Their match was stopped by rain on Wednesday, and will resume on Thursday, with Monica leading 6-2, 2-0.

    On Tuesday at Roland Garros, in the 1st round of the French Open, defeated 7-5, 3-6, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Kristina said: "After the draw I wasn't very happy, but I made sure I prepared as well as I could and was ready to play my best tennis. When I got on court, I thought, 'I'm at home, be positive.' I tried to get my forehand into play and attack her forehand whenever I could and it worked well." WTA story

    Na said: "Nobody says if you're No. 2 in the world you have to win all the matches. I mean, this is tennis. Everyone comes to the court, everyone has a chance to win the match. I think it doesn't matter who it was today against me, I still lost the match today, because I don't think she got a lot of pressure from me. I think today I gave the match away." postmatch interview

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Kristina will play
    Kristina and Alison have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Tuesday at Paris, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 11th seeded #12 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I expected a very tough match. Especially since she's been playing really well on clay. It was the first time we played against each other, but I just stuck with the tactics that I talked about with my coach. I started off really well and aggressively, and I sort of felt I was on top of her for the rest of the match. This gives me lots of confidence, and I'm really happy with the win." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Ana will play 19 year old #38 (career high #33) Elina Svitolina from Kharkiv, Ukraine.

    Ana leads Elina 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Ana defeated Elina 4-6, 7-5, 7-6(1).

    On Monday at Roland Garros, in the 1st round of the French Open, the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 & 2011 Rome champ), 27 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated the 2011 champ at Tashkent, 22 year old qualifier #160 (career high: #37) Ksenia Pervak from Moscow, Russia, 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Rain delays slowed play, and more rain is possible on Tuesday.

    Maria said: "It's always nice to get out there on a day like this. It's good to play first match, as you know. Hopefully you'll be able to finish the match today with the weather conditions being as they are. It's always nice to get through." postmatch interview

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Maria will play the 2014 champion at Sydney (and a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist), 26 year old #42 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

    Maria leads Tsveti 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round of the Championships at Wimbledon, when Maria defeated Tsvetana 7-6(3), 6(7)-7, 6-0.

    Also on Monday at Paris, defeated 7-5, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Domi said: "It wasn't easy today. I was prepared for a really tough match, because Virginie, she's a great player. With her, you never know. At 5-4 on her serve, I just changed a little bit on my return. I went a little bit forward to give her less time. So there was a change that really pumped me up, and then I won a few games and I started to get more confidence." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Dominika will play the 2012 Eastbourne champion, 23 year old qualifier #159 (career high: #27) Tamira Paszek from Dornbirn, Austria.

    Domi and Tamira have met only once before, in 2009 on Har-Tru green clay in the 2nd round at Charleston, when Dominika defeated Tamira 6-4, 6-0.

    On Sunday at Roland Garros, in the 1st round of the French Open, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "A lot of the [games] went to 30-all or so. So I think the games were actually pretty close. It was interesting. I was a little nervous, like I always am in my first round. It's kind of always hard for me to shake those nerves and go from there." postmatch interview

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Serena will play

    Also on Sunday at Paris, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "The first set was definitely key. There were so many breaks in a row but then when I held I started to play much better and go more for my shots more." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Agnieszka will play the winner of Monday's match between and 29 year old wild card #141 (career high: #59) Mathilde Johansson from Boulogne Billancourt, France (birthplace: Goteborg, Sweden).

Stuttgart (file, April 23):

#101 Julia Goerges
5' 11" 154lb RH 2H-BH Strasbourg:

#60 Monica Puig
5' 7" 140lb RH 2H-BH     On Friday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the semifinals of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (Genie is shown alerting the media after the match).

    In the Nuremberg final on Saturday, Genie will play the 2013 Kuala Lumpur champion (and 2014 Pattaya City finalist), 22 year old #62 (career high: #51) Karolina Pliskova from Louny, Czech Republic.

    Genie and Karolina have met only once before, in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round of the US Open, when Genie defeated Karolina 4-6, 6-4, 7-5.

    Genie is 0-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 24-11 singles match record in 2014.

    Karolina is 1-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 25-11 singles match record for the season.

    Meanwhile in France, in the semifinals of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, defeated 7-5, 6-3 (Monica is shown while defeating Daniela Hantuchova in the 1st round at Rome last week).

    In the Strasbourg final on Saturday, Monica will play
    Monica and Silvia have met only once before, last year on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round of at Wimbledon, when Monica defeated Silvia 6-2, 5-7, 6-4.

    Monica is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has won 6 ITF singles titles. Monica has an 11-9 singles match record this season.

    Silvia is also playing in her first WTA singles final. She has won 4 ITF singles titles. Silvia has a 23-15 singles match record for the year.

    On Thursday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the quarterfinals of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 20 year old 2nd seeded #20 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 7-6(3), 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    In the Nuremberg semifinals on Friday, Genie will play the 2008 finalist at Antwerp, 26 year old #51 (career high: #35) Karin Knapp from Lutago, Italy.

    Genie and Karin have met only once before, in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Washington, when Genie defeated Karin 6-2, 7-6(4).

    Meanwhile in France, in the quarterfinals of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, 19 year old 15th seeded #38 (career high: #36) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida, defeated 6-2, 2-6, 6-2 (Madison is shown while defeating Alison Riske in the 1st round at Rome on May 12).

    Madison said: "[Julia] has a great forehand, so I was definitely trying to stay away from that. So I was just trying to play my game, play to her backhand more, and wait for the right opportunity." WTA story

    In the Strasbourg semifinals on Friday, Madison will play 20 year old #60 (career high: #44) Monica Puig of Puerto Rico (residence: Miami, Florida).

    Madison and Monica have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 2nd round of the French Open, when Monica defeated Madison 6-4, 7-6(2).

    On Wednesday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the 2nd round of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup, defeated 20 year old wild card #108 (career high: #107) Anna-Lena Friedsam from Oberduerenbach, Germany, 6-2, 7-6(0) (Angelique is shown while defeating Tsvetana Pironkova in the 3rd round at Miami on March 22).

    Angelique said: "The first set was good. I was feeling good and I found my rhythm. In the second set Anna-Lena was playing great. She was playing much more aggressive. But I was happy about my game plan and that I was able to win, and I'm really happy to get more matches before Paris. But Anna-Lena is a great young German talent, and for sure she has a good future." WTA story

    In the Nuremberg quarterfinals on Thursday, Angelique will play
    Angelique leads Karolina 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Angelique defated Karolina 7-6(2), 6-4.

    Meanwhile in France, in the 2nd round of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (Andrea is shown while defeating Sabine Lisicki in the 3rd round at Charleston on April 3).

    In the Strasbourg quarterfinals on Thursday, Andrea will play 20 year old #60 (career high: #44) Monica Puig of Puerto Rico (residence: Miami, Florida).

    Andrea and Monica are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the semifinals of an ITF tourney at Marseille, when Andrea defeated Monica 6-0, 6-0.

    On Tuesday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the 2nd round of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup, defeated 32 year old qualifier #214 (career high: #62) Anastasia Rodionova of Australia, 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the Nuremberg quarterfinals on Thursday, Genie will play
    Genie and Slava have met only once before, 3 weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Oeiras, when Genie defated Yaroslava 6-4, 6-2.

    Meanwhile in France, in the 1st round of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (Julia is shown while defeating Sorana Cirstea in the 1st round at Stuttgart on April 23).

    Julia said: "It's definitely a good win. It's always a good win to beat a top 20 player, especially someone I've lost to before. And I'm pleased the way I played today. It was pretty solid in general. [Sloane] had two or three games in each set where she wasn't on top, and I tried to take advantage of it." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Julia will play
    Lauren leads Julia 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last week on red clay in qualifying at Rome, when Lauren defeated Julia 6-3, 6-4.

    On Monday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the 1st round of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 20 year old 2nd seeded #20 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6-0, 6-3 (Genie is shown while meeting the press on Monday).

    Genie said: "I felt like I played really well in the first set, and I was really trying to step in and be aggressive and that put a lot of pressure on [Barbora]. It was definitely tighter in the second, but I'm always trying to play as well as I can so it's good to have these challenges. I'm happy to get a win and looking forward to the next round." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Genie will play 32 year old qualifier #214 (career high: #62) Anastasia Rodionova of Australia.

    Meanwhile in France, in the 1st round of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, defeated 6-2, 6(3)-7, 6-3 (Zarina is shown while defeating Jelena Jankovic in the 2nd round at Moscow in 2010).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Zarina will play
Rome:

#11 Sara Errani
5'4½" 132lb RH 2H-BH Rome:

#32 Venus Williams
6' 1" 160lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Rome, in the semifinals of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2013 & 2002 Rome champion (and 2014 Miami & Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Also on Saturday in Italy, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Sara said: "I just tried to keep focused on my game and what I had to do. The motivation was the crowd. They were unbelievable and I have no words to say what it is like to play on this court with this support. Amazing!" WTA story

    Serena will play Sara in the Italian Open final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Sara 6-0 in career matches; Sara won only one set in those six encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the semifinals of the Frenc Open, when Serena defeated Sara 6-0, 6-1.

    Serena is 59-17 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 22-3 singles match record this season, with losses to Ana Ivanovic, Alize Cornet and Jana Cepelova.

    Sara is 7-8 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 22-12 singles match record this year.

    On Friday at Rome, in the quarterfinals of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2007 and 2008 Rome champion, 29 year old 6th seeded #7 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the Italian Open semifinals on Saturday, Jelena will play the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 27 year old 10th seeded #11 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    JJ and Sara are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Sara defeated Jelena 6-4, 6-4.

    Jelena said: "[Sara is] the local favorite and will have the crowd on her side, but I've already experienced that this week against Pennetta, so I know what to expect. It's going to be a very physical match. I have to stay focused and calm and just try to play my game, and just do what I do best." WTA story

    Also on Friday in Italy, the 2013 & 2002 Rome champion (and 2014 Miami & Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the Italian Open semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 11th seeded #12 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Serena leads Ana 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Ana defeated Serena 4-6, 6-3, 6-3.

    Serena said: "Whenever you play someone you lose to you're not necessarily thinking about revenge, you're thinking, 'I really want to win because they beat me last time.' It's more motivation than anything, because last time they got the best of you, and you want to show them you can play too. So I won't necessarily be going for revenge tomorrow, I'll be going for the match."

    Ana said: "I think it's a different match on a different surface. Both of us have a clear style of game, and it kind of depends on the surface, but no matter what, it's going to be a tough match."

    On Thursday at Rome, in the 3rd round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 11th seeded #12 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Ana lost to Maria in the Stuttgart final last month. Ana said: "I really tried to learn from the match in Stuttgart a few weeks ago. I was dominating the first part of the match. I made good tactics with my coach: I took time away from her and stepped forward when I needed to. And I am really pleased with this." WTA story

    Maria played six matches last week to win the title at Madrid. Maria said: "I don't use Madrid as an excuse. I had a great two weeks and came here to play a tournament. My energy level maybe wasn't at its highest, but Ana played a really great match, coming up with a lot of winners from all over the court, and just really being the better player."

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play
    Ana and Carla have met only once before, in 2012 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 1st round at Doha, when Ana defeated Carla 6-1, 4-1 retired. Carla was unable to continue that day due to a right hip injury.

    Also on Thursday in Italy, the 2013 & 2002 Rome champion (and 2014 Miami & Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2013 champion at Guangzhou, 25 year old #41 (career high: #41) Shuai Zhang from Tianjin, China.

    Serena and Shuai have met only once before, in 2012 on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Serena defeated Shuai 6-2, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at Rome, in the 2nd round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2013 & 2002 Rome champion (and 2014 Miami & Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena had considered withdrawing from Rome due to a left thigh injury. Serena said: "I am very happy. I wasn't sure how the leg was going to be because how it feels in practice can be different than in a match. But it was good and I'll continue to do the same treatment. I knew I was going to play. I am such a competitor and it broke my heart to pull out of Madrid, especially being the defending champ. I'm not 100%, but I feel it's not going to get worse, and it's getting better, so that's good." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play 27 year old #49 (career high: #19) Varvara Lepchenko from Allentown, Pennsylvania (birthplace: Tashkent, Uzbekistan).

    Serena and Varvara have met only once before, last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Brisbane, when Serena defeated Varvara 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Wednesday in Italy, the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 & 2011 Rome champ), 27 year old 8th seeded #9 (last week, #7 this week, and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Maria will play the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 11th seeded #12 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Maria leads Ana 8-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on red clay in the final at Stuttgart, when Maria defeated Ana 3-6, 6-4, 6-1.

    On Tuesday at Rome, in the 1st round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), defeated 6-4, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Camila will play
    Camila and Christina have met only once before, early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in qualifying at Sydney, when Christina defeated Camila 5-7, 7-5, 6-3.

    Also on Tuesday in Italy, 20 year old qualifier #61 (career high: #44) Monica Puig of Puerto Rico (residence: Miami, Florida), defeated 6-0, 4-6, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Monica will play the 2014 champion at Madrid & Stuttgart (and the 2012 & 2011 Rome champ), 27 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida).

    Maria and Monica have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday at Rome, in the 1st round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play
    Ana and Alize are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Cincinnati, when Alize defeated Ana 2-6, 7-6(8), 6-4.

    Also on Monday in Italy, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Acapulco (file, February 27):

#57 Christina McHale
5' 7" 127lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday in Spain, in the semifinals of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 1-6, 6-2, 6-3 (Simona is shown during the match, Maria is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Maria's prize is €698,720 (about $970,838 US), Simona's prize is €342,600 (about $476,026 US).

    Maria said: "What a week. Last year I lost in the finals and I really wanted to go one extra step this year, and it's just been such a fantastic week...

    "Simona and I had played a couple of times before, but she's really on a different level now. I don't know how I pulled it off. In the first set I wasn't doing much to hurt her, and that's the tennis she's capable of playing. I knew I had to do some different things after the first set to win this match...

    "I don't take any finals for granted, and every tournament means a lot to me. I came close last year, and I didn't have a great first set today, but I knew it wasn't over until the last point was played." WTA story

    Maria now leads Simona 3-0 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Beijing, when Maria defeated Simona 7-5, 7-5.

    Maria is now 31-22 in WTA singles finals, and has a 23-5 singles match record this season. Maria has lost only 3 of the 46 matches she has played on clay courts since the 2011 French Open; all three losses were to Serena Williams.

    Simona is now 7-4 in WTA singles finals, and has a 18-7 singles match record this season.

    On Saturday in Spain, in the semifinals of the Mutua Madrid Open, the 2014 champion at Stuttgart (and 2013 Madrid finalist), 27 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I started the match off really well and I was doing all the right things. Then [Agnieszka] gained a bit of confidence and started going for her shots more. It became a little bit trickier than I wanted in the second set. I was happy that I came back and stepped it up and did the right things to get myself back in a good position in that set." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Madrid, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 4th seeded #5 (career high: #5) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6(4)-7, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "It's been an amazing week for me, I feel very well here in Madrid. I played really well, I was striking the ball really well." AP story

    Simona will play Maria in the Mutua Madrid Open final on Sunday.

    Maria leads Simona 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Beijing, when Maria defeated Simona 7-5, 7-5.

    Maria is 30-22 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 22-5 singles match record this season. Maria has lost only 3 of the 45 matches she has played on clay courts since the 2011 French Open; all three losses were to Serena Williams.

    Simona is 7-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 18-6 singles match record this season.

    Maria said: "[Simona is] having a great year so it's going to be an extremely difficult match."

    On Friday in Spain, in the quarterfinals of the Mutua Madrid Open, the 2014 champion at Stuttgart (and 2013 Madrid finalist), 27 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 2-6, 7-6(5), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "It really could have gone her way today. It was just a matter of a few points in the second set. I was down, I didn't play a great first set, and I found a way to get myself in a position to be in the third." AP story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland (and 2014 Indian Wells finalist), 25 year old 3rd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Maria leads Aga 9-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting two weeks ago on red clay in the quarterfinals at Stuttgart, when Maria defeated Agnieszka 6-4, 6-3.

    Also on Friday at Madrid, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 4th seeded #5 (career high: #5) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Simona will play the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Madrid & Wimbledon champion), 24 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Petra advanced when the 2013 Madrid champion, top seeded #1 Serena Williams withdrew due to a left thigh injury. Serena said she still plans to play at Rome next week—if the injury heals in time.

    Simona and Petra have met only once before, last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at New Haven, when Simona defeated Petra 6-2, 6-2.

    On Thursday in Spain, in the 2nd round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    It was Serena's 650th career match victory.

    Serena said: "I feel like [Carla] played really well today. She made me work for every point and it wasn't an easy win. I think that was her goal today, was to put on a really good show and play really hard and show me what she's capable of. She's obviously capable of doing a lot on the court. She just won a title last week, so she's definitely not an easy player to play." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Madrid & Wimbledon champion), 24 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Serena leads Petra 5-0 in career matches, and Petra won only one set in those 5 matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a indoor hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Serena defeated Petra 6-2, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at Madrid, the 2014 champion at Stuttgart (and 2013 Madrid finalist), 27 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will play the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 32 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Maria leads Na 9-5 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on red clay in the final at Stuttgart, when Maria defeated Na 6-4, 6-3.

    On Wednesday in Spain, in the 2nd round of the Mutua Madrid Open, the 2013 Madrid champion (and 2014 Miami & Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play last week's champion at Oeiras, 25 year old 14th seeded #15 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Serena leads Carla 3-0 in career matches, and Carla won only 5 games in those 3 matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals of the US Open, when Serena defeated Carla 6-0, 6-0.

    Also on Wednesday at Madrid, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "[Lara is] a good player on clay because she has that Spanish style, hitting the forehand with a lot of topspin. She played well in the first set and when I was 4-3 down my serve really helped me. I just wanted to stay focused for every point and to fight for every point. So I did really well in the end, and I'm really happy that I won." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Simona will play
    Simona and Sabine are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Laykold hardcourt in the 1st round at Miami, when Simona defeated Sabine 6-2, 3-6, 7-5.

    On Tuesday in Spain, in the 2nd round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria trailed 1-4 in the 3rd set, then won the next 5 games to take the match. Maria has won 43 of her 45 matches on clay since 2012; all three losses were to Serena Williams.

    Maria said: "After a really good start to the match, I didn't keep that level. I didn't keep doing what I was doing. I think I had a bit of a letdown. But [Christina is] a good competitor. She won't just give matches away, and she works really hard out there, and I think she really showed that today." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Maria will play

    Also on Tuesday at Madrid, defeated her compatriot, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Na will play
    Na and Sloane have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday in Spain, in the 1st round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 7-6(3), 6-2 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "Of course it was a very tough first round, especially for my first outdoor tournament on clay. I didn't use my first chance when I was 5-3 up, but [Genie] was really playing and hitting the ball unbelievable. I think the tiebreak was the biggest key in that match. I did a couple of good shots in the tiebreak and managed to win that. And that gave me more confidence in the second set.

    "Every point matters. The games were really tight. And the first set is always very important, especially in these kinds of matches. So that's why I was really doing everything to win that first set." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Aga will play
    Svetlana leads Aga 10-3 in career matches, and Svetlana has won their last 6 meetings. Their most recent encounter was in 2012 on red clay in the 3rd round at Roland Garros, when Svetlana defeated Agnieszka 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Monday at Madrid, the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 32 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-1, 7-6(7) (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Na will play her compatriot, the 2011 Auckland champ, 30 year old #58 (career high: #15) Jie Zheng from Chengdu, Sichuan, China.

    Jie leads Na 4-3 in career matches, but two of Jie's wins were by retirements, and Na has won their last three encounters. Their most recent meeting in March of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Na defeated Jie 6-1, 7-5.

    On Sunday in Spain, in the 1st round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Shuai 2-0 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Laykold hardcourt in the 3rd round at Miami, Serena defeated Shuai 7-5, 6-2.

    Also on Sunday at Madrid, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "It was a good start for me. Obviously the first match at a new event is always challenging because you don't know what to expect, especially coming off the indoor tournament last week. It's always an adjustment to get yourself prepared for the first round. I'm happy that I won in two good sets today." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Maria will play
    Maria leads Christina 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on the same red clay in the 2nd round at Madrid, when Maria defeated Christina 6-1, 6-2.

    On Saturday in Spain, in the 1st round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 6(4)-7, 6-3, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Garbine will play the winner of Monday's match between and
    Also on Saturday at Madrid, defeated 7-6(2), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Christina said: "It was kind of funny when I saw the draw. Of all the people to play, I got Lauren, who I practice with all the time. You never want to play a friend, but at the same time, I had to stay focused and not spend too much time thinking about who I was playing, just what I needed to do... Since we play each other so much, she knows my game so well and I know her game so well, so there's really no surprises and we both kind of knew what the other was going to do." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, Christina will play the winner of Sunday's match between the 2014 champion at Stuttgart, 27 year old 8th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), and the 2014 champion at Florianopolis (and finalist at Rio & Hobart), 32 year old #31 (career high: #21) Klara Koukalova from Prague, Czech Republic.

Oeiras:

#60 Yanina Wickmayer
6'0" 150lb RH 2H-BH Oeiras:

#29 Svetlana Kuznetsova
5' 8½" 161lb RH 2H-BH     On Friday at Oeiras, in the semifinals of the Portugal Open, defeated 7-6(3), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Carla said: "For me, it's been a very good week and I feel good. The most important thing for me is to stay concentrated and focused in all the matches, because on clay there can be many ups and downs in the matches. All I know is that I'm feeling good here and I want to play well tomorrow." WTA story

    Also on Friday in Portugal, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Svetlana said: "I didn't move as well as I did against Bouchard and I will need to improve again for the final. At the start of the week I was hoping just to build some confidence ahead of Madrid, Rome and obviously the French Open, but now, of course, I am also thinking about the trophy."

    Carla will play Svetlana in the Portugal Open final on Saturday.

    Svetlana leads Carla 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Svetlana defeated Carla 6-2, 4-6, 6-3.

    Carla is 0-5 in previous WTA singles finals. Her singles match record this season is 25-10.

    Svetlana is 13-19 in previous WTA singles finals, but has not won a title since 2010 (San Diego). This is the first final Svetlana has reached since 2011 (Dubai). Svetlana has a 8-5 singles match record in 2014.

    On Thursday at Oeiras, in the quarterfinals of the Portugal Open, the 2013 champion at Eastbourne and Hobart, 27 year old 8th seeded #33 (career high: #21) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, defeated 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Elena trailed 2-5 in the 3rd set, then won the next 5 games to take the match.

    Elena said: "I played two tough matches in a row. In both of them I was down and came back. I'm just happy that I fought until the end and didn't give up. Everything was against me. Roberta played really well today. She was playing unbelievably at the beginning of the third set. I had no chances, but then I just tried to fight for every single point, got lucky on a couple of key points and was able to come back...

    "I've been working for many years and am getting more mature. I'm not putting that much pressure on myself. I'm really enjoying myself on the court and trying to win as many matches as I can." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Elena will play the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 28 year old 7th seeded #29 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Elena and Svetlana have met only once before, in 2009 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Dubai, when Elena defeated Svetlana 6-4, 3-6, 6-0.

    Also on Wednesday in Portugal, defeated 6-3, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Friday, Irina will play the 2013 finalist at Oeiras & Acapulco, 25 year old top seeded #16 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Irina and Carla are tied at 1-1 in career matches, Their most recent meeting in 2012 in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Carla defeated Irina 6-1, 7-5.

    On Wednesday at Oeiras, in the 2nd round of the Portugal Open, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Genie said: "It was difficult to get a lot of rhythm because she can hit some really big balls. [Yaroslava] was controlling quite a lot of the points today, which I wasn't too happy with, although I still feel like my game is in a good place and I'm just going to try and keep getting better...
    "It was tight at the end of the first set, so I just tried to stay positive and luckily got through. I think every day you get a little bit more used to the clay. It's still an adjustment period and the goal is just to get better with every match." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Genie will play the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 28 year old 7th seeded #29 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Genie and Svetlana have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Wednesday in Portugal, the 2013 champion at Eastbourne and Hobart, 27 year old 8th seeded #33 (career high: #21) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, defeated 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(7) (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Elena will play the 2013 Katowice and Palermo champion, 31 year old 4th seeded #20 (career high: #13) Roberta Vinci from Taranto, Italy.

    Elena leads Roberta 4-3 in career matches, but Roberta won their last two encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year in the 2nd round at Moscow, when Roberta defeated Elena 2-6, 6-1, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Oeiras, in the 1st round of the Portugal Open, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 20 year old 2nd seeded #18 (career high: #18) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated the 2010 champion at Kuala Lumpur & Seoul, 24 year old qualifier #122 (rank down due to a battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma; career high: #20) Alisa Kleybanova from Moscow, Russia, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Early in the 2nd set Genie fell, returned a shot while still down on the clay, then got up and won the point (see video in this week's tourney playlist).

    Genie said: "It was a solid performance. I was pretty happy with how I played... That point at the start of the second was crazy: I was on the run and I fell and had pretty much given up on the point. But then I saw the ball come near me and I though just for fun I'd hit it. My shot was kind of weird but I got back in the point and then managed to hit a passing shot." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Genie will play a 2012 & 2010 Roland Garros quarterfinalist, 26 year old #55 (career high: #29) Yaroslava Shvedova from Astana, Kazakhstan.

    Genie and Slava have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday in Portugal, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Timea will play
    Timea and Ons will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Monday at Oeiras, in the 1st round of the Portugal Open, defeated 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Bojana will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday in Portugal, the 2010 Auckland champ, 23 year old #60 (career high: #12) Yanina Wickmayer of Belgium (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 23 year old #74 (career high: #29) Urszula Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Yanina will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Stuttgart:

#9 Maria Sharapova
400hp, 3472lb, 182mph, 0-60 4.4sec 3.8L, 6cyl, 400hp, 3472lb, 182mph, 0-60 4.4sec     On Sunday at Stuttgart, in the final of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, defeated 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria's prize is $120,000 and a Porsche 911 Targa 4S valued at about the same amount; Ana's prize is $64,000.

    Maria said: "For the first half of the match I thought it might not be my day today, but somehow I turned it around. I had quite a slow beginning to the year, but me and my team have been working hard to get in the position to win titles again, and I'm so happy to be able to do it here." WTA story

    Ana said: ""From the first moment it was always a close match. It was always a few close balls to decide each game, and it went on the whole match. In the second set [Maria] definitely went for those big shots, though, and she made some amazing points. She's just a great player, and that's what happens when you play against great players in big matches like this. You need to use your opportunities. But there's always next time."

    Maria now leads Ana 8-2 in career matches, and Maria won their last 7 encounters. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on red clay in the semifinals at Madrid, when Maria defeated Ana 6-4, 6-3.

    Maria "Claypova" is now 30-22 in WTA singles finals (7-2 in clay court finals), and has a 17-5 singles match record in 2014. Maria has never lost a match at Stuttgart (13-0)

    Ana is now 13-6 in WTA singles finals (2-2 in clay court finals), and has a 23-6 singles match record this year.

    At Marrakech on Sunday, in the final of the Grand Prix SAR La Princesse Lalla Meryem, will play
    Maria-Teresa and Romina have met only once before, in 2012 on red clay in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Bucharest, when Maria-Teresa defeated Romina 6-2, 6-2.

    Maria-Teresa is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 7-7 singles match record this season.

    Romina is also playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 11-6 singles match record for the year.

    On Saturday at Stuttgart, in the semifinals of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the 2013 & 2012 tourney champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells), 27 year old 6th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "The further you go in the tournament, the harder it gets, and I really wanted to step up today and produce a good performance. The first tournament on clay is always tough. It's important to improve with each match and I think I've done that this week. I know how good Sara is on the surface and I was extra ready to perform against her. She has a lot of experience and really knows how to play, so I had to take care of things on my side of the net." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Stuttgart, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 2nd seeded #13 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated her compatriot, 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I'm definitely relieved. The last game was a little bit of a drama. When [Jelena] saved that match point when my ball hit the net cord, that was just an amazing point. But it was a great way to finish the match. I really tried to step in on the tight situations at the end. That's my game." WTA story

    Ana will play Maria in the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix final on Sunday.

    Maria leads Ana 7-2 in career matches, and Maria won their last 6 encounters. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on red clay in the semifinals at Madrid, when Maria defeated Ana 6-4, 6-3.

    Maria "Claypova" is 29-22 in previous WTA singles finals (6-2 in clay court finals), and has a 16-5 singles match record in 2014. Maria has never lost a match at Stuttgart (12-0)

    Ana is 13-5 in previous WTA singles finals (2-1 in clay court finals), and has a 23-5 singles match record this year.

    Maria defeated Ana in the 2013 Stuttgart quarterfinals, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4. Ana said: "It's definitely going to be a very tough match. I don't think [Maria has] ever lost a match here. She loves this tournament, and hopefully it will be a great match like we had here last year."

    At Marrakech on Sunday, in the final of the Grand Prix SAR La Princesse Lalla Meryem, 21 year old #72 (career high: #64) Maria-Teresa Torro-Flor from Villena, Spain, will play 27 year old #44 (career high: #44) Romina Oprandi from Bern, Switzerland.

    Maria-Teresa and Romina have met only once before, in 2012 on red clay in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Bucharest, when Maria-Teresa defeated Romina 6-2, 6-2.

    Maria-Teresa is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 7-7 singles match record this season.

    Romina is also playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 11-6 singles match record for the year.

    On Friday at Stuttgart, in the quarterfinals of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the 2013 & 2012 tourney champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells), 27 year old 6th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria won on her 8th match point. Maria said: "[Agnieszka] likes moving her opponents around the court and she does that extremely well when she has time. I don't want to find myself running forwards and backwards. I need to look for the opportunities when I have short ball and take advantage of that and not let her get back into the point, which she does so often. That's something that I did really well...

    "Obviously it was a very difficult end and she played extremely well on some of those match points. I was happy that I stayed aggressive and I was able to win the last one. It was a really big point obviously. So it's a big win for me, probably the biggest since my injury." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 26 year old 8th seeded #11 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Maria leads Sara 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Laykold hardcourt in quarterfinals at Miami, when Maria defeated Sara 7-5, 7-5.

    Also on Friday at Stuttgart, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 2nd seeded #13 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Ana will play the 2008 Porsche Tennis Grand Prix champion, 29 year old 5th seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Ana leads Jelena 8-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Ana defeated Jelena 7-5, 6-3.

    On Thursday at Stuttgart, in the 2nd round of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the 2013 & 2012 tourney champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells), 27 year old 6th seeded #9 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland (and 2014 Indian Wells finalist), 25 year old top seeded #3 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Maria leads Aga 8-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on an indoor hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Maria defeated Agnieszka 5-7, 7-5, 7-5.

    Maria said: "I love these kinds of challenges. We've played each other many times, and there are certainly no secrets about each other's games. But I don't think we've played on clay in a while, so I look forward to improving all aspects of my game because she's playing well." WTA story

    Also on Thursday at Stuttgart, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 2nd seeded #13 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 1-6, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I didn't feel I did many things wrong in that first set, [Julia] was just playing very well. I don't think she had any unforced errors, to be honest, and she had a lot of winners. But I knew I had to stay positive and calm.
    "I waited for my moment and turned it around early in the second set. I played a really good game to break her and then managed to hold my serve, and that set the tone a little bit in the second set. After that a few errors started creeping into her game and I think I used that to my advantage really well. I used that momentum and in the third set I just kept going, staying aggressive and taking risks." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 28 year old #29 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Ana leads Svetlana 8-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 3rd round at Miami, when Ana defeated Svetlana 6-3, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at Stuttgart, in the 1st round of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 2nd seeded #13 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I'm obviously very happy with my performance today. It was a tough match for me, so I really came on the court sharp, started really well, served well. I was consistent throughout the whole match. I stuck with the tactics we had and was very pleased with my performance." WTA story

    Also on Wednesday at Stuttgart, the 2011 Porsche Tennis Grand Prix champion, 25 year old wild card #94 (career high: #16) Julia Goerges from Bad Oldesloe, Germany, defeated 6-1, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Julia will play Ana in the 2nd round on Thursday.

    Ana leads Julia 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a chlorophyll court in the 3rd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Ana defeated Julia 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Stuttgart, in the 1st round of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, defeated 7-6(5), 6(5)-7, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    Maria took a 5-1 lead in the 3rd set, but Lucie won the next 5 games. Maria broke Lucie as she was serving for the match at 6-5, then Maria prevailed in the final tiebreaker.

    Maria said: "I think Lucie is an exceptional player. She's presented me a lot of challenges when we've played in the past, and going into the match today I knew it wasn't going to be an easy one. I could have returned better. But I think this was one of the best serving matches she's played against me. She was finding the lines extremely well and mixing it up too, and it was hard to break her. But I'm really happy I was able to be the winner of this match. I was two points from losing." WTA story

    The match lasted 3 hours and 23 minutes. It was the first three-tiebreaker match in a WTA main draw since 2010 [Madrid R2: #1 s1 Serena Williams USA d #44 Vera Dushevina RUS 6(2)-7, 7-6(5), 7-6(5)].

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Maria will play
    Maria and Anastasia are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in February of this year on an indoor hardcourt at Paris, when Anastasia defeated Maria 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Tuesday at Stuttgart, defeated 2-6, 7-6(8), 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Jelena will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    On Saturday at Brisbane, in the semifinals of the 2014 Fed Cup World Group competition, this year's finalist at Doha (and the 2013 Linz champion), 26 year old #7 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 4-6, 6-0, 6-4 (Angelique is shown after match point).

    The win put Germany ahead of Australia 3-0 in the best of five, clinching a place for the Germans in November's Fed Cup final.

    Angelique said: "It feels very great. I played a good match but it was a tough one because Sam was playing also very tough and I have never beaten her before. It just means a lot; it’s a special moment for all of us." ITF story

    The 4th singles rubber was not played. Australia won the dead doubles rubber, making the final score Germany 3, Australia 1.

    Meanwhile, at Ostrava, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The match win clinched the semifinal victory for the Czechs, 3-0.

    Petra said: "It was a very tough match for me against Roberta, who is a very different player to Camila [Giorgi]. She returned very well and my serve didn't help me as much as yesterday. It was difficult for me but I won the important points." ITF story

    The 4th singles rubber was not played. The Czechs also won the dead doubles rubber, making the final score Czech Republic 4, Italy 0.

    Czech Republic will host Germany for the Fed Cup final, November 8-9. The Czechs were also finalists in 2013; it will be Germany's first Fed Cup final in 22 years.

    In the World Group playoffs on April 19-20, WG R1 losers are competing along with World Group II winners. USA is hosting France, Slovakia is playing at Canada, Russia won at Argentina, and Spain lost at Poland. Winners of the World Group playoffs will play in the World Group in 2015 (actually competing for the Fed Cup); losers will play in World Group II (competing to get into the World Group in 2016).

    USA is hosting France in a World Group play-off at Chaifetz Arena, on the campus of Saint Louis University. #17 Sloane Stephens, #42 Madison Keys, #48 Varvara Lepchenko and #59 Christina McHale are facing the French team of #21 Alize Cornet, #51 Caroline Garcia, #78 Virginie Razzano and #87 Kristina Mladenovic.

Saturday at St. Louis:
n51 Caroline Garcia d n17 Sloane Stephens 6-3, 6-2
n42 Madison Keys USA d n21 Alize Cornet FRA 6(4)-7, 7-6(4), 6-3
FRA 1, USA 1

    On Saturday at Brisbane, in the semifinals of the 2014 Fed Cup World Group competition, defeated the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad (and the 2011 US Open champion), 30 year old #19 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, 6-1, 7-6(7).

    About the close 2nd set, Andrea said: "My energy level dropped a little, I don’t know why, and Sam started serving better; heavier and deeper and she pushed me back. I think in the end I was a little lucky and glad I got through in two sets. I didn’t think Sam was nervous in the match. I just played aggressive, in the beginning and she wasn’t in the match, but then she was playing well." ITF story

    Samantha said: "I had put myself in a good position in the second set so it was disappointing to lose it. [Andrea] was able to get a good strike on the ball. The court is quick and she was striking the ball well. I wasn’t overly nervous but she came out pretty clean and I should have been able to do that the way my opponent did."

    Angelique Kerber defeated Casey Dellacqua 6-1, 6-0 in the second match of the best of five, giving Germany a likely to be insurmountable 2-0 lead over Australia three matches to play on Sunday.

    Meanwhile, at Ostrava, Czech Republic, defeated 6-4, 6-1.

    Lucie said: "It was a great match and I played so well, especially in the second set. The crowd is amazing and I love to play at home." ITF story

    Petra Kvitova defeated Camila Giorgi 6-4, 6-2 in the second match of the best of five, putting the Czechs ahead of Italy 2-0.

    A Germany versus Czech Republic 2014 Fed Cup Final is now highly likely.

    In the World Group playoffs on April 19-20, WG R1 losers are competing along with World Group II winners. USA is hosting France, Slovakia is playing at Canada, Russia is hosting Argentina, and Spain is playing at Poland. Winners of the World Group playoffs will play in the World Group in 2015 (actually competing for the Fed Cup); losers will play in World Group II (competing to get into the World Group in 2016).

    USA is hosting France in a World Group play-off at Chaifetz Arena, on the campus of Saint Louis University. #17 Sloane Stephens, #42 Madison Keys, #48 Varvara Lepchenko and #59 Christina McHale are facing the French team of #21 Alize Cornet, #51 Caroline Garcia, #78 Virginie Razzano and #87 Kristina Mladenovic.

Saturday at St. Louis:
n51 Caroline Garcia d n17 Sloane Stephens 6-3, 6-2
n42 Madison Keys USA d n21 Alize Cornet FRA 6(4)-7, 7-6(4), 6-3
FRA 1, USA 1

Kuala Lumpur:

#144 Danke Kovinic
?'?" ?lb RH 2H-BH Kuala Lumpur:

#95 Donna Vekic
5' 10" 141lb RH 2H-BH Kuala Lumpur:

#95 Donna Vekic
5'10" 141lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Kuala Lumpur, in the final of the BMW Malaysia Open, the 2013 finalist at Birmingham, 17 year old 7th seeded #95 (career high: #62) Donna Vekic from Osijek, Croatia, won her first WTA singles title by defeating 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(4) (Dominika is shown during the match; Donna is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Donna's prize is $43,000; Dominika's prize is $21,400.

    Donna took a 5-1 lead in the 3rd set—then Domi won the next four games to level the score.

    Donna said: "It was a very tough match. [Dominika] played very well throughout the whole match. I was up 5-1 in the third set and she came back out playing insane. So I'm happy I was able to get through in the end." WTA story

    Dominika said: "[Donna] played really well today. In the second set I was really close to winning, but she played really well, really strong, and it was just about a few balls out there, really. It was really close. It was such a good match."

    Donna and Dominika had met only once before, last month on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Dominika defeated Donna 6-3, 6-2.

    Donna is now 1-2 in WTA singles finals, and has a 11-7 singles match record in 2014.

    Dominika is now 4-7 in WTA singles finals, and has a 24-9 singles match record this season.

    On Saturday at Kuala Lumpur, in the semifinals of the BMW Malaysia Open, the 2014 Acapulco champion (and Australian Open finalist), 24 year old top seeded #10 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 6(3)-7, 6-3, 6-3 (Dominika is shown during her quarterfinal victory on Friday).

    It was Domi's 24th match victory this season, tops in the WTA.

    Dominika said: "I have to say today I wasn't feeling 100% on the court. But every day is different and every day you have to find a way to win. Today was just about fighting and finding my rhythm." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Kuala Lumpur, the 2013 finalist at Birmingham, 17 year old 7th seeded #95 (career high: #62) Donna Vekic from Osijek, Croatia, defeated 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Donna said: "In the first three games I think I won just one point. I was so shocked. [Shuai] played very well, but I was just a bit lost on the court... I started hitting it a little bit harder and attacking her forehand a little more, and she started making some mistakes out there."

    Domi will play Donna in the Malaysia Open final on Sunday. They have met only once before, last month on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Dominika defeated Donna 6-3, 6-2.

    Dominika is 4-6 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 24-8 singles match record this season.

    Donna is 0-2 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 10-7 singles match record in 2014.

    On Friday at Kuala Lumpur, in the quarterfinals of the BMW Malaysia Open, the 2014 Acapulco champion (and Australian Open finalist), 24 year old top seeded #10 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    It was Domi's 23rd match victory this season, tops in the WTA.

    Dominika said: "[Zarina] played really, really well. It was a really big test. Today was the first time it wasn't raining before the match, so it was really humid and the air was different. There was a really long game in the first set that I lost, and it really put me down physically. It made me feel really tired. It took me two or three games to get back and find my game, but I'm happy I managed to get it back." WTA story

    In the Malaysia Open semifinals on Saturday, Domi will play the 2013 Kuala Lumpur champion, 22 year old 3rd seeded #67 (career high: #51) Karolina Pliskova from Louny, Czech Republic.

    Domi and Karolina have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Friday at Kuala Lumpur, the 2013 champion at Guangzhou, 25 year old 2nd seeded #46 (career high: #41) Shuai Zhang from Tianjin, China, defeated 21 year old qualifier #121 (career high #115) Magda Linette of Poland, 6-2, 2-6, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Shuai said: "It was my second consecutive match in the afternoon and the heat affected my game in the second set. The short break before the third set however helped me regain energy.

    "I was emotional after winning because it was a good feeling, as after Acapulco I couldn’t train for one month due to a shoulder injury." tourney story

    In the Malaysia Open semifinals on Saturday, Shuai will play
    Shuai and Donna will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Thursday at Kuala Lumpur, in the 2nd round of the BMW Malaysia Open, the 2014 Acapulco champion (and Australian Open finalist), 24 year old top seeded #10 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    It was Domi's 22nd match victory this season, tops in the WTA.

    Dominika said: "I have to say I was playing much better today than I did yesterday. It was quite a good match from my side. I was feeling the ball well today. I didn't let [Su-Wei] take me out of my rhythm." WTA story

    In the Malaysia Open quarterfinals on Friday, Domi will play 20 year old 6th seeded #93 Zarina Diyas from Almaty, Kazakhstan.

    Domi and Zarina have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Thursday at Kuala Lumpur, the 2013 champion at Guangzhou, 25 year old 2nd seeded #46 (career high: #41) Shuai Zhang from Tianjin, China, defeated 24 year old wild card #320 (career high: #184) Ling Zhang of Hong Kong, 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Shuai said: "The humidity affected my game today. I felt very hot and had to change my attire during the rain interval. I did not play well in the first set and also did badly in the second. Zhang Ling was very aggressive, and in the third set I changed by game plan and it worked." tourney story

    In the Malaysia Open quarterfinals on Friday, Shuai will play 21 year old qualifier #121 (career high #115) Magda Linette of Poland.

    Shuai and Magda will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Wednesday at Kuala Lumpur, in the 1st round of the BMW Malaysia Open, the 2014 Acapulco champion (and Australian Open finalist), 24 year old top seeded #10 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 17 year old qualifier #214 (career high: #209) Pemra Ozgen of Turkey, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Dominika said: "I didn't let [Pemra] play at all in the first set and was feeling quite good. But in the second set, I changed my racquet for the new balls and that was a mistake as the tension was not right. I was back on track after I changed my racquet again. I was really aggressive and didn't give her any chance to play." tourney story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Domi will play the 2012 Kuala Lumpur (and Guangzhou) champion, 28 year old #126 (career high: #23) Su-Wei Hsieh from Taipei, Taiwan.

    Domi and Su-Wei have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    Also on Wednesday at Kuala Lumpur, in a 2nd round match, 20 year old 6th seeded #93 Zarina Diyas from Almaty, Kazakhstan, defeated 26 year old qualifier #241 Giulia Gatto-Monticone of Italy, 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Zarina said: "I played well today considering the tough conditions, I am happy with my game. It was difficult at the start of the second set as Giulia played more aggressive. I changed my strategy by playing more angle balls...
    "It was drizzling at the end of the second set and luckily I managed to finish the match before the heavy downpour. I am in good physical condition and ready for the next match." tourney story

    In the Malaysia Open quarterfinals on Friday, Zarina will play the winner of Thursday's match between Dominika Cibulkova and Su-Wei Hsieh.

    On Tuesday at Kuala Lumpur, in the 1st round of the BMW Malaysia Open, the 2012 Kuala Lumpur (and Guangzhou) champion, 28 year old #126 (career high: #23) Su-Wei Hsieh from Taipei, Taiwan, defeated 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Rain interrupted play, but the schedule was completed. Su-Wei said: "The win brings back memories of my first tour title in Kuala Lumpur two years ago. Every time it rains, I play better so I hope for good results here... I was making a lot of mistakes in the first set. I could not hit proper balls while Jarmila was doing so well. The rain, however, threw me a lifeline." tourney story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Su-Wei will play the winner of Wednesday's match between the 2014 Acapulco champion (and Australian Open finalist), 24 year old top seeded #10 (career high: #10) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, and qualifier #214 Pemra Ozgen of Turkey.

    Also on Tuesday at Kuala Lumpur, defeated 24 year old #297 Yung-Jan Chan from Taipei, Taiwan, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Donna will play 22 year old #137 (career high: #86) Kristyna Pliskova from Louny, Czech Republic.

    Donna and Kristyna have never before met on the field of combat (pro singles).

    On Monday at Kuala Lumpur, in the 1st round of the BMW Malaysia Open, defeated 20 year old #127 (career high: #122) An-Sophie Mestach of Belgium, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Danke will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and qualifier #167 Eri Hozumi of Japan.

    Rain stopped play at Kuala Lumpur on Monday with only one singles match completed, and one in progress.

    All remaining singles matches are now scheduled for Tuesday, except n10 s1 Dominika Cibulkova SVK v n214 q Pemra Ozgen TUR, which will be played on Wednesday—weather permitting.

    Rain is forecast for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Bogota:

#125 Mariana Duque Marino
5' 7" 137lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday in Poland, in the final of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated 7-6(3), 5-7, 7-5 (Alize is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Alize's prize is $43,000; Camila's prize is $21,400.

    Alize said: "What a match. It was definitely a huge fight, which is what I expected, and I had to save a match point to win the title, so it feels very special. I gave everything I had. I'm so happy I could win here at this beautiful tournament in Katowice." WTA story

    Alize and Camila had met only once before, in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round of the Australian Open, when Alize defeated Camila 6-3, 4-6, 6-4.

    Alize is now 4-4 in WTA singles finals, and has a 18-8 singles match record this season.

    Camila was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 13-6 singles match record for the year.

    Meanwhile at Bogota, in the final of the Claro Open Colsanitas, won her first WTA singles title by defeating 6-3, 6-4 (Caroline is shown after match point).

    Caroline's prize is $43,000; Jelena's prize is $21,400.

    Jelena still leads Caroline 2-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was last year on green clay in the 2nd round at Charleston, when Jelena defeated Caroline 5-7, 7-6(10), 6-3.

    Caroline was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has an 11-8 singles match record this season.

    Jelena is now 13-19 in WTA singles finals, and has a 20-9 singles match record in 2014.

    On Saturday in Poland, in the semifinals of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, the 2014 finalist at Dubai (and 2013 champ at Strasbourg), 24 year old 4th seeded #23 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, defeated 0-6, 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    It was Alize's second career win over a top 4 ranked player. Alize defeated #1 Serena Williams in the semifinals at Dubai in February.

    In the Katowice final on Sunday, Alize will play 20 year old #67 (career high: #67) Camila Giorgi of Italy (residence: France).

    Alize and Camila have met only once before, in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round of the Australian Open, when Alize defeated Camila 6-3, 4-6, 6-4.

    Alize is 3-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 17-8 singles match record this season.

    Camila is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 13-5 singles match record for the year.

    Meanwhile at Bogota, in the semifinals of the Claro Open Colsanitas, 2013 tourney champion, 29 year old top seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-1, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The win was Jelena's 550th career match victory, third most of all active WTA players after Venus Williams (651) and Serena Williams (647).

    Jelena said: "I played, I think, much better [than yesterday] and I'm very happy to be in the final. It was a tough match today. Chanelle served very well."

    In the Bogota final on Sunday, Jelena will play 20 year old 5th seeded #71 (career high: #70) Caroline Garcia from Lyon, France.

    Jelena leads Caroline 2-0 in career matches, though Caroline held match points in both encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on green clay in the 2nd round at Charleston, when Jelena defeated Caroline 5-7, 7-6(10), 6-3.

    Jelena is 13-18 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 20-8 singles match record in 2014.

    Caroline is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 10-8 singles match record this season.


    On Thursday at Bogota, in the 2nd round of the Claro Open Colsanitas, 2013 tourney champion, 29 year old top seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 24 year old Lucky Loser #217 (career high: #206) Sofia Shapatava of Georgia, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Jelena said: "I played much better today. The conditions are tough here, but I'm happy that I improved from yesterday. Hopefully, I will play even better tomorrow." WTA story

    In the Bogota quarterfinals on Friday, Jelena will play
    Jelena and Lara have met only once before, in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round of the US Open, when JJ defeated Lara 6-4, 6-2.

    Meanwhile in Poland, in the 2nd round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland (and 2014 Indian Wells finalist), 25 year old top seeded #3 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "Francesca already showed that she's in great form here in Katowice when she dropped just two games in her first round match. I expected a tough battle from start to finish, and I got exactly what I expected. She moved so well today that I had to show my best tennis to beat her. I'm really happy I managed to close out the match in straight sets." WTA story

    The win made Aga the fourth WTA player so far to reach 20 match victories in 2014. In the Katowice quarterfinals on Friday, Aga will play
    Aga leads Yvonne 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Agnieszka defeated Yvonne 6-1, 6-1.

    On Wednesday at Bogota, in the 1st round of the Claro Open Colsanitas, 2013 tourney champion, 29 year old top seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 7-5, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Jelena said: "The conditions are a little bit different from what I played in last week [in Charleston] and throughout the year. It's high altitude, so the ball was really flying off my racquet. And not a little out, but one or two meters out. I only came here three days ago, so that's not enough to get used to it and feel comfortable. But I was fighting hard and was trying to stay strong even when I wasn't playing well. I managed to get through, so hopefully I'll get better and better with each match...
    "[Mathilde] played very well under these conditions. She was hitting the ball much better than I did. I was fighting well but I wasn't striking the ball very well, so I was lucky to break serve at the end and finish the match." WTA story

    In the Bogota 2nd round on Thursday, Jelena will play 24 year old Lucky Loser #217 (career high: #206) Sofia Shapatava of Georgia.

    Jelena and Sofia have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile in Poland, in the 2nd round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Klara said: "It took me a while to find my rhythm, but Annika is a very tough opponent. She's just a few spots behind me in the rankings. It was a tough match and I was very happy to improve my game in the third set." WTA story

    The win made Klara the third WTA player so far to reach 20 match victories in 2014. Klara said: "It feels great. I didn't know that I've won 20 matches this year now. It's a positive thing that I've won so many matches this year. It definitely gives me a lot of confidence."

    In the Katowice quarterfinals on Friday, Klara will play the winner of Thursday's match between and 22 year old qualifier #146 (career high: #103) Kristina Kucova from Bratislava, Slovakia.

    On Tuesday at Bogota, in the 1st round of the Claro Open Colsanitas, the 2010 Bogota champion, 23 year old #125 (career high: #94) Mariana Duque-Marino from Bogotá, Colombia, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Mariana said: "I was prepared for a hard match. You never know what the score is going to be, but the match was much tougher than what the score indicated... I'm so happy. Not just for beating Stephens but also because I played really well. I think from the start of the match, I was really confident and it showed during the match." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Mariana will play 18 year old #235 (career high: #165) Irina Khromacheva of Russia (residence: Belgium).

    Mariana and Irina have met only once before, in 2012 on red clay in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Saint Gaudens, France, when Mariana defeated Irina 7-6(2), 6-4.

    Meanwhile in Poland, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Alize will play
    Alize and Kristina have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday in Poland, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Camila said: "It was my first match for a few weeks, so it has been a while. But I felt good out there. It was a good match and a good surface. There are still a lot of things I need to improve in my game but I´m pleased with my win." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Camila will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday at Katowice, defeated 23 year old #95 (career high: #47) Petra Martic from Split, Croatia, 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Shahar will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Doha (file, February 13):

#133 Petra Cetkovska
5'8" 141lb RH 2H-BH Charleston:

#76 Jana Cepelova
5' 6" 132lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Charleston, in the final of the Family Circle Cup, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Andrea's prize is $120,000, Jana's prize is $64,000.

    In the 1st set, Andrea took a 3-0 two-break lead, but Jana then won the next four games. Jana reached a set point, which she failed to convert. In the 2nd set, Andrea dominated, reaching 5-0 before Jana got on the scoreboard.

    At the trophy ceremony, Andrea said: "First of all I want to congratulate Jana for an amazing week... You did this all by yourself, no coach, nobody here with you... I'm just so impressed."

    Petko and Jana had never before met on the field of combat.

    Andrea is now 3-5 in previous WTA singles finals. This is her first Premier title, her previous wins coming at Bad Gastein and Strasbourg. Andrea now has a 12-7 singles match record this season.

    Jana was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 13-9 singles match record in 2014.

    On Saturday night in Mexico, in the semifinals of the Abierto Monterrey, defeated 7-6(5), 6-4 (Ana is shown during her quarterfinal win on Friday).

    In the Monterrey final on Sunday, Ana will play her compatriot,
    Ana is 12-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 18-5 singles match record this year.

    Jovana is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 13-6 singles match record for the season.

    Ana and Jovana will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Saturday at Charleston, in the semifinals of the Family Circle Cup, the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 26 year old 14th seeded #37 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 1-6, 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Genie dominated the 1st set, and it looked as though she would win easily. But Andrea took control in the 2nd, frequently dictating the points.

    Andrea said: "The match was really tough. Genie played so well today. She was so aggressive, and I have to admit I was a little lucky in the second set when I managed to turn the match around. It was just a few points here and there that made the difference." WTA story

    In the Charleston final on Sunday, Andrea will play 20 year old #76 (career high: #61) Jana Cepelova from Kosice, Slovakia.

    Petko and Jana have never before met on the field of combat (aka pro singles).

    Andrea is 2-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 11-7 singles match record this season.

    Jana is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 13-8 singles match record in 2014.

    Meanwhile in Mexico, in the semifinals of the Abierto Monterrey, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 2nd seeded #13 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated the 2013 champ at Luxembourg, 23 year old 3rd seeded #18 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), 7-6(5), 6-4 (Ana is shown during her quarterfinal win on Friday).

    In the Monterrey final on Sunday, Ana will play her compatriot, 20 year old #133 Jovana Jaksic from Belgrade, Serbia.

    Ana is 12-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 18-5 singles match record this year.

    Jovana is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 13-6 singles match record for the season.

    Ana and Jovana will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Friday at Charleston, in the quarterfinals of the Family Circle Cup, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 20 year old 6th seeded #19 (career high: #19) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Genie said: "I knew in the second set my game wasn't where I wanted it to be. I think [Jelena] did a good job of stepping in and controlling, and she changes directions a lot, so I was really on the run. And that's fine, but that's not where I want to be most of the time. I needed to get back to my game.
    "I didn't really think about how I was up a break in the second, because it was in the past, and I had to move forward. I'm happy I didn't hold onto that. It was important to have short-term memory." WTA story

    Jelena said: "[Genie is] very solid. She stays so low and takes your balls so early off the ground, so even if you hit hard, she just picks them up so easily and kind of directs them. That's her biggest strength, that she can absorb someone's ball and just use it."

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Genie will play the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 26 year old 14th seeded #37 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany.

    Andrea leads Genie 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on an indoor hardcourt in the 1st round at Luxembourg, when Andrea defeated Genie 2-6, 7-5, 6-1.

    Also on Friday at Charleston, defeated 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Johnny Belinda: In the semifinals on Saturday, Belinda will play 20 year old #76 (career high: #61) Jana Cepelova from Kosice, Slovakia.

    Jana and Belinda have never before met on the field of combat (aka pro singles).

    On Thursday at Charleston, in the 3rd round of the Family Circle Cup, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 20 year old 6th seeded #19 (career high: #19) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 7-6(6), 2-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Genie said: "In the second set [Venus] really started going for her shots. I just tried to keep fighting. It's always fun for me to play such a great champion like Venus. She's still playing at such a high level and it was such a battle out there. It was a little bit ugly at times, but I just kept trying to fight through it." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Genie will play the 2007 Charleston champion (and 2013 finalist), 29 year old 2nd seeded #6 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Jelena and Genie are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Tokyo, when Genie defeated Jelena 7-5, 6-2.

    Also on Thursday at Charleston, the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 26 year old 14th seeded #37 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, crushed, killed and destroyed her compatriot, 6-1, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Petko has now won 30 of her last 32 games. Her last five sets: 6-1, 6-0, 6-0, 6-1, 6-0.

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Andrea will play
    Andrea leads Lucie 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Beijing, when Lucie defeated Andrea 6-4, 6(7)-7, 7-6(2).

    On Wednesday at Charleston, in the 2nd round of the Family Circle Cup, the 2014 champion at Dubai, 33 year old 11th seeded #31 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 7-5, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Venus trailed 1-4 in the 2nd set, then won 6 of the next 7 games to take the match.

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Venus will play a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 20 year old 6th seeded #19 (career high: #19) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Venus and Genie have met only once before, in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Tokyo, when Venus defeated Genie 6-3, 6(7)-7, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Charleston, the 2007 Charleston champion (and 2013 finalist), 29 year old 2nd seeded #6 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), handily defeated 6-0, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Jelena will play
    JJ and Ajla have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday at Charleston, in the 2nd round of the Family Circle Cup, won the biggest victory of her career, defeating 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "Obviously I wasn't at my best. But I kept trying—and [Jana] kept pushing... I'm dead [tired]. I need to take a breath... It wasn't my night. She was a great counter-puncher and played a really good match."

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Jana will play the winner of Wednesday's match between the 2011 finalist at New Haven, 29 year old #83 (career high: #28) Petra Cetkovska from Prostejov, Czech Republic.

    Also on Monday at Charleston, a 2014 Australian Open semifinalist (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 20 year old 6th seeded #19 (career high: #19) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, demolished 6-2, 6-0 (Genie is shown while driving to meet the press after the match).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Genie will play the winner of Wednesday's match between the 2014 champion at Dubai, 33 year old 11th seeded #31 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and the 2011 champion at Guangzhou, 29 year old #78 (career high: #37) Chanelle Scheepers from Harrismith, South Africa.

    On Monday at Charleston, in the 1st round of the Family Circle Cup, defeated 7-6(0), 7-6(3) (Madison is shown while defeating Daniela Hantuchova in the 2nd round at Miami 10 days ago).

    Madison said: "I'm so happy to be back on clay. I love it. I didn't play great at times, and well at other times. It was just one of those first matches back on clay. I'm just happy to get through it...
    "You definitely have to change your game, like obviously if I'm 10 feet behind the baseline I can't go for a winner, because it slows the ball down. I can slide, which is the good thing, but I'm still trying to work on some stuff. At the same time I'm trying not to overthink everything right now." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Madison will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday at Charleston, defeated 6-1, 2-6, 6-0 (Petra is shown while defeating Li Na in the 3rd round at Doha this year).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Petra will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Melbourne (file, January 19, 2013):
#28 Elena Vesnina
5'7¾" 132lb RH 2H-BH     On Thursday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the semifinals of the 2014 Sony Open, won her 7th Miami final by defeating 7-5, 6-1 (Na is shown during the match; Serena is shown holding the glassware afterward).

    Serena's prize is $787,000; Na's prize is $384,065.

    Na led by a double break, 5-2, in the 1st set. From that point Serena won five straight games to take the set, and 11 of the next 12 games to take the match.

    Serena now leads Na 11-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the final of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Serena defeated Na 2-6, 6-3, 6-0.

    Serena is now 59-17 in WTA singles finals, including 7-2 in Miami finals. Serena has a 15-2 singles match record this season, losing only to Ana Ivanovic and Alize Cornet.

    Na is now 9-12 in WTA singles finals. Na has a 22-3 singles match record this season, losing only to Serena, Petra Cetkovska and Flavia Pennetta.

    On Thursday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the semifinals of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2013, 2008, 2007, 2004, 2003, & 2002 Miami champion (and 2014 Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, reached her 9th Miami final by defeating the 2013 Miami finalist (and Indian Wells & Stuttgart champion), 26 year old 4th seeded #5 (last week, #7 this week, former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    The win made Serena 9-0 in Miami semifinals; Maria dropped to 5-1 in Miami SFs.

    Maria led 4-1 in the 1st set. Serena said: "I think [Maria] started out strong. I made some unforced errors, and I had a lot of chances to be up first game, and then had some chances to hold serve and chances to break again. So I think I definitely let myself down in the first three games, and then she just started playing better. But when I'm not playing well, or when I'm feeling lower energy, I know I can do better. That's always a plus. Especially during a match, sometimes I feel like, 'Okay, well, you can take it up a level.'" WTA story

    Serena now leads Maria 16-2 in career matches; both of Maria's wins over Serena were in 2004.

    Maria said: "Despite my results against her, I still look forward to playing against Serena, because you learn so much from that type of level that she produces."

    In Thursday's other semifinal, the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 7-5, 2-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Windy conditions affected play. Na struck 33 winners with 43 unforced errors; Dominika hit 23 winners with 35 UEs.

    Na said: "I'm so happy I can be in the final here for the first time... The only things I could do were run as much as I could and fight for every point." WTA story

    Na now leads Domi 7-0 in career matches.

    Serena will play Na in the Sony Open final on Saturday.

    Serena leads Na 10-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the final of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Serena defeated Na 2-6, 6-3, 6-0.

    Serena is 58-17 in previous WTA singles finals, including 6-2 in Miami finals. Serena has a 14-2 singles match record this season, losing only to Ana Ivanovic and Alize Cornet.

    Na is 9-11 in previous WTA singles finals. Na has a 22-2 singles match record this season, losing only to Petra Cetkovska and Flavia Pennetta.

    On Wednesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2014 Acapulco champion (and Australian Open finalist), 24 year old 10th seeded #11 (career high: #11) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 3-6, 7-6(5), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Dominika struck 50 winners with 55 unforced errors; Aga hit 28 winners, with 39 UEs. The win will put Dominika into the top 10 in the WTA singles rankings for the first time in her career.

    Domi said: "This win really means a lot to me. It's always tough to play Aga, but I knew I just had to stay aggressive. If you make some mistakes with Aga you still have to stay aggressive. That's the way I play, and it's the only way to beat her. I just had to keep going."
    "I knew before the match that this was the match I needed to win to become top 10. So it was some more pressure, but I'm obviously very happy with the way I handled it today." WTA story

    Also on Wednesday at Key Biscayne, the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 7-5, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Na will play Dominika in the Sony Open semifinals on Thursday evening (9pm ET).

    Na leads Domi 6-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was two weeks ago on a Plexipave hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells, when Na defeated Domi 6-3, 4-6, 6-3. Their only other meeting this season was in January on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the final of the Australian Open, when Na defeated Dominika 7-6(3), 6-0.

    In Thursday's early semifinal (1pm ET), the 2013, 2008, 2007, 2004, 2003, & 2002 Miami champion (and 2014 Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, will play the 2013 Miami finalist (and Indian Wells & Stuttgart champion), 26 year old 4th seeded #5 (last week, #7 this week, former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL).

    Serena leads Maria 15-2 in career matches; both of Maria's wins over Serena were in 2004. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the semifinals at Brisbane, when Serena defeated Maria 6-2, 7-6(7).

    Maria said: "It's no secret that [Serena has] been a big challenge of mine, an opponent that obviously I would love to beat. There are ways I need to step up in certain situations I haven't been able to do in the past against her, but it's great I have the opportunity to play her again...

    "The last few times we've played, I've had some chances that I wasn't quite creating a couple years ago. It's about taking those, though... She plays well all the time."

    On Tuesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2013, 2008, 2007, 2004, 2003, & 2002 Miami champion (and 2014 Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I felt much better today than in a few of my other matches here. Knowing I was going to play a top 10 player, I knew I had to come out and play really well tonight. And I did play well." WTA story

    Also on Tuesday at Key Biscayne, the 2013 Miami finalist (and Indian Wells & Stuttgart champion), 26 year old 4th seeded #5 (last week, #7 this week, former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Wimbledon champion), 24 year old 8th seeded #9 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, 7-5, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I didn't have a good first few games, so I was happy I kept trying to do the right thing. Keep steady, but also keep trying to be aggressive. I think that really paid off as the match went on, because I made a few too many unforced errors in the beginning of the match.

    "I started getting more chances as we played more games in the first set, and little by little I started getting myself back in the points more and playing my game, playing well, going inside the baseline. You're never sure until you finish the match, but I really felt like I started doing the right things.

    "Petra is a Grand Slam champion. You can never underestimate someone that goes on the court and has that experience. She's capable of playing really great tennis, and I think everyone knows that." WTA story

    Maria will play Serena in the Sony Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Serena leads Maria 15-2 in career matches; both of Maria's wins over Serena were in 2004. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the semifinals at Brisbane, when Serena defeated Maria 6-2, 7-6(7).

    Maria said: "It's no secret that [Serena has] been a big challenge of mine, an opponent that obviously I would love to beat. There are ways I need to step up in certain situations I haven't been able to do in the past against her, but it's great I have the opportunity to play her again...

    "The last few times we've played, I've had some chances that I wasn't quite creating a couple years ago. It's about taking those, though... She plays well all the time."

    On Monday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 4th round of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2013, 2008, 2007, 2004, 2003, & 2002 Miami champion (and 2014 Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "It was a much tougher match than the scoreline showed. Coco has such an amazing serve, so every time I was returning I was like, 'Hopefully I can touch the ball.' But it was really good for me to win this match today. I love playing here in Miami." WTA story

    Serena had words for Coco after the match. Coco said: "She said, 'Listen, you played so well. We've got to play doubles somewhere. I'm serious. We'd do so well. We've got to play doubles...' I think I would have to get through Venus first to be able to play doubles with Serena, but whenever she wants to, I will play doubles with her!"

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Serena will play this year's finalist at Doha (and the 2013 Linz champion), 26 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    Serena leads Angelique 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on an indoor hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Serena defeated Angelique 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Monday at Key Biscayne, the 2013 Miami finalist (and Indian Wells & Stuttgart champion), 26 year old 4th seeded #5 (last week, #7 this week, former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I usually like playing first match on, but I didn't start off the way I wanted to. Nothing was working in the first set...
    [Kirsten is] a different type of opponent. There aren't too many girls that hit a slice backhand 90% of the time in the rallies... I wasn't doing too much from my end and made a lot of mistakes from the first ball, which gives your opponent that confidence and the time they need to do whatever they want." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Maria will play
    Maria leads Petra 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 in the semifinals of the French Open, when Maria defeated Petra 6-3, 6-3.

    On Sunday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 3rd round of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 7-6(3), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Na said: "Madison was playing very well today. Big serve, big forehand... I'm just happy I played well on those big points in the first set." WTA story

    Madison said: "All credit to [Na], especially on my set points. She completely went for the ball and hit winners. I'm learning from her: going for your shots, believing in yourself and just really going for it."

    In the 4th round on Monday, Na will play
    Na and Carla have met only once before, in 2009 on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Na defeated Carla 5-7, 6-1, 7-5.

    Also on Sunday at Key Biscayne, defeated 6-4, 5-7, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 4th round on Monday, Venus will play the 2014 Australian Open finalist (and 2013 champion at Stanford), 24 year old top seeded #13 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia.

    Venus and Domi are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on red clay in the 3rd round of the French Open,, when Venus defeated Dominika 6-3, 6-4.

    On Saturday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 3rd round of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2013, 2008, 2007, 2004, 2003, & 2002 Miami champion (and 2014 Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 34 winners, but with 47 unforced errors.

    Serena said: "[Caroline is] obviously a really good player... but I really gave myself a tremendous amount of trouble out there too. I made so many unforced errors, I hit so short... I really just have to do better." WTA story

    Caroline said: "It was already my third time playing Serena, so maybe she was a little less intimidating than the previous times. I just tried to forget it's Serena Williams, forget that she's won how many Grand Slams, and just be me and just play. And I'm happy with what I did. It was a good match. She's a great player and she's always fighting a lot. I think it was a good test for me."

    In the 4th round on Monday, Serena will play the 2012 Stanford finalist, 22 year old qualifier #108 (career high: #89) Coco Vandeweghe from Rancho Santa Fe, California.

    Serena leads Coco 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round of the US Open, when Serena defeated Coco 6-1, 6-1.

    Also on Saturday at Key Biscayne, the 2013 Miami finalist (and Indian Wells & Stuttgart champion), 26 year old 4th seeded #5 (last week, #7 this week, former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-4, 6(7)-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "Obviously it was tough to lose that second set after having a couple of match points, but I was really happy with the way I came out. I didn't let that affect me... I was happy with the way I finished off the match. I thought our level was quite high in the end of the match." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Monday, Maria will play the 2013 finalist at 's-Hertogenbosch, 28 year old 19th seeded #20 (career high: #13) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium.

    Maria leads Kirsten 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on an indoor hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Paris, when Maria defeated Kirsten 6-2, 6-2.

    On Saturday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 3rd round of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2013, 2008, 2007, 2004, 2003, & 2002 Miami champion (and 2014 Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 20 year old #77 (career high: #70) Caroline Garcia from Lyon, France, 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 34 winners, but with 47 unforced errors.

    Serena said: "[Caroline is] obviously a really good player... but I really gave myself a tremendous amount of trouble out there too. I made so many unforced errors, I hit so short... I really just have to do better." WTA story

    Caroline said: "It was already my third time playing Serena, so maybe she was a little less intimidating than the previous times. I just tried to forget it's Serena Williams, forget that she's won how many Grand Slams, and just be me and just play. And I'm happy with what I did. It was a good match. She's a great player and she's always fighting a lot. I think it was a good test for me."

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Serena will play the winner of Saturday's late match between and the 2012 Stanford finalist, 22 year old qualifier #108 (career high: #89) Coco Vandeweghe from Rancho Santa Fe, California.

    Also on Saturday at Key Biscayne, the 2013 Miami finalist (and Indian Wells & Stuttgart champion), 26 year old 4th seeded #5 (last week, #7 this week, former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Maria will play the 2013 finalist at 's-Hertogenbosch, 28 year old 19th seeded #20 (career high: #13) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium.

    Maria leads Kirsten 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on an indoor hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Paris, when Maria defeated Kirsten 6-2, 6-2.

    On Friday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 2nd round of the 2014 Sony Open, defeated 6-4, 2-6, 7-5 (Barbora is shown after match point).

    Barbora lead 4-1 in the 3rd set, then Roberta closed the gap to 4-all.

    Barbora said: "It was so difficult, because Roberta is such a great player. We played against each other three times—I never beat her. So I'm very happy that I won today." tourney interview video

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Barbora will play
    Barbora and Elina have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Friday at Key Biscayne, 19 year old #38 (career high: #36) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Madison will play the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 2nd seeded #2 (career high: #2) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Na and Madison are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid,, when Madison defeated Na 6-3, 6-2.

    On Thursday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 2nd round of the 2014 Sony Open, the 2013, 2008, 2007, 2004, 2003, & 2002 Miami champion (and 2014 Brisbane champ) 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 7-6(7), 6-2 (photo shown).

    Yaroslava served for the 1st set while leading 5-3, but failed to convert her set points.

    Serena said: "[Yaroslava] was playing really, really well. When she was up a break I really tried to fight to make the shots. And when she was serving for the first set, I just tried to be more Serena-like.

    "She was doing a little bit of everything today. She was hitting hard, she was hitting soft, she was doing a little bit of everything. I was making a few more errors than what I should have been making, what I should have made, and that really kind of threw me for a loop during the match as well. But I just tried to come back and stay in the match." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Serena will play 20 year old #77 (career high: #70) Caroline Garcia from Lyon, France.

    Serena leads Caroline 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round of The Championships at Wimbledon,, when Serena defeated Caroline 6-3, 6-2.

    Also on Thursday at Key Biscayne, the 2013 Miami finalist (and Indian Wells & Stuttgart champion), 26 year old 4th seeded #5 (last week, #7 this week, former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "[Kurumi] made me work extremely hard. She's a really quick opponent, got a lot of balls back, as you saw, and she made me hit a lot. She made me try to do too much in certain situations." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Maria will play the 2013 Quebec City champ, 27 year old 26th seeded #28 (career high: #21) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic.

    Maria leads Lucie 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on red clay indoors in the 2nd round at Stuttgart, when Maria defeated Lucie 6-4, 6(7)-7, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 1st round of the 2014 Sony Open, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (Petko is shown after match point).

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Andrea will play
    Alize leads Andrea 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in February of this year on in indoor hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Paris, when Alize defeated Andrea 7-6(6), 5-7, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Key Biscayne, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Christina will play
    Christina and Kaia have met only once before, in February of this year in quarterfinals at Acapulco, when Christina defeated Kaia 6-1, 2-6, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 1st round of the 2014 Sony Open, defeated 7-6(2), 6-4 (Kurumi is shown while defeating Klara Zakopalova in the Rio final).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday or Friday, Kurumi will play
    Maria and Kurumi have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Key Biscayne, defeated 29 year old #60 (career high: #46) Galina Voskoboeva from Astana, Kazakhstan, 6-2, 7-5 (Tsveti is shown while defeating Angelique Kerber in the Sydney final).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday or Friday, Tsvetana will play
    Tsveti leads Sori 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year in the 1st round at Sydney, when Tsvetana, on her way to the title, defeated Sorana 6-4, 6-1.

Indian Wells:

#64 Lauren Davis
5' 2" 121lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Indian Wells, in the final of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, won the biggest title of her career by defeating 6-2, 6-1 (Agnieszka is shown during the match; Flavia is shown with the glassware afterward).

    Flavia's prize is $1,000,000; Aga's prize is $500,000.

    It is Flavia's first WTA singles title since 2010. She was sidelined for six months in 2012-2013 by a right wrist injury and surgery, and the slow climb up the rankings when she returned to play caused her to consider retiring from pro tennis.

    Flavia said: "Last year at this tournament I was thinking 'I cannot be here anymore.' And this year I am here with the trophy." WTA story

    Agnieszka was slowed by a left knee injury, and at the award ceremony tearfully apologized to the crowd for her inability to run during the match.

    Agnieszka still leads Flavia 4-3 in career matches. Their previous meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Dubai, when Flavia defeated Agnieszka 6-4, 6-1.

    Flavia is now 10-13 in WTA singles finals. She has a 15-3 singles match record this year.

    Agnieszka is now 13-6 in WTA singles finals; she has not yet won a title this year. Agnieszka has a 15-5 singles match record in 2014.

    On Thursday at Indian Wells, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 (Na is shown after match point).

    It is the first large tourney at which Na has had the pressure of being the top seed. Na said: "Not like before if I come here, maybe like No. 6 or No. 7 seed. But I think I am handling very well, so just continue." AP story

    Dominika said: "My serve was just not there. Maybe I tried to go for too much. [Na's] serve was much better than mine."

    Also on Thursday at Indian Wells, the 2010 champion at Marbella, 32 year old 20th seeded #21 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland), defeated 6-4, 5-7, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Gusty winds affected play. Flavia said: "We didn't play our best tennis. Maybe in the beginning we played much better, and in the second [set], but the third was a disaster for both of us.
    "I'm happy to get through this match, but I don't have good feelings right now. It's just crazy outside, the wind is just coming out of nowhere. But on the other hand I'm happy because I was 3-0 down in the third and fought until the last point." WTA story

    Flavia will play Na in the BNP Paribas Open semifinals on Friday.

    Na leads Flavia 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, when Na, on her way to the title, defeated Flavia 6-2, 6-2.

    Flavia said: "[Na] started amazing in Australia. The match was completely in one direction, and I didn't have any chances at all. But I hope to have a little bit of a chance tomorrow."

    In Friday's other semifinal, the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 2nd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, will play
    Aga leads Simona 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was a month ago on a Plexipave hardcourt in the semifinals at Doha, when Simona defeated Agnieszka 7-5, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Indian Wells, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 2nd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Jelena trailed 0-4 in the 3rd set before making a run to tie the score at 4-4. But Aga won the next two games to close out the match.

    Agnieszka said: "It was a very good match from the beginning 'til the end. For sure I should have finished it a little bit earlier in the third set, but [Jelena] was really fighting until the last point. I think I was just better in a couple of points at the end today. I'm really happy I could win this one." WTA story

    Also on Wednesday at Indian Wells, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Simona is shown after match point).

    Simona said: "Today was better than the last few matches. I felt very good on the court. I was moving really well. I had no pressure, and I was more relaxed than I was in yesterday's match. My game is to be aggressive and hit the balls, and I did much better than the days before." WTA story

    Simona will play Agnieszka in the BNP Paribas Open semifinals on Friday.

    Aga leads Simona 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting a month ago on a Plexipave hardcourt in the semifinals at Doha, when Simona defeated Agnieszka 7-5, 6-2.

    On Tuesday at Indian Wells, in the 4th round of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, the 2010 Indian Wells champion, , 28 year old 7th seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Jelena defeated Caroline in the 2010 Indian Wells final, but lost to Caro every time they met since then—until today.

    Jelena said: "I lost to [Caroline] the last I don't know how many times [five matches], but right now I'm playing some pretty good tennis. I went on court trying to wait for my chances.

    "Against her, if you go for too much, you just make so many errors and beat yourself. It happened to me a lot of times in the past. So I just tried to play solid and aggressive at the same time, waited for the right shots, and then executed. I just didn't let her play how she plays. That was very important in the match today." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Jelena will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 2nd seeded #3 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Aga leads JJ 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Tokyo, when Agnieszka defeated Jelena 6-2, 7-5.

    Also on Tuesday at Indian Wells, the 2014 champion at Doha (and 2013 champ at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg), 22 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #7) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-2, 1-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "I knew [Genie is] a great player and playing really well, so I just tried to do my game, play aggressive and play fast. It wasn't my best tennis today, but I was fighting a lot. I did well. I think I came back in the third set really well. I did everything I could do during the match today. She's improving tournament by tournament so I'm really happy that I won this match." WTA story

    Genie said: "[Simona] was very, very solid. I expected a good player, but I think she has a really good defense. That's a weapon of hers. It really puts pressure on her opponents to finish the point. She has a lot of experience too. She's won a lot of titles and has been there in that third set battling. She was a break down and came up with some great tennis. She played very well."

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Simona will play 29 year old qualifier #80 (career high: #39) Casey Dellacqua from Perth, Australia.

    Simona and Casey have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday at Indian Wells, in the 3rd round of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Camila said: "It was a really good match. It wasn't too consistent, but it was great anyway. I just tried to play my game and keep going, and even if I missed, I still played my game. I didn't change. I think I was just playing more aggressive than [Maria] at the end, and that was really important." WTA story

    Maria said: "[Camila is] someone that doesn't give you much rhythm. She's quite aggressive... If she can play like that on a consistent basis, she will be a good player...
    "If I'm speaking about my level, it was nowhere near where it should have been." AP story

    In the 4th round on Tuesday, Camila will play
    Flavia and Camila have met only once before, in 2012 on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Camila defeated Flavia 6-4, 6-3.

    Also on Monday at Indian Wells, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Na won despite striking 9 double faults. Na said: "At least I could win the last point and stay in the tournament. If you're a tennis player, you'll make double faults. At least I can improve my serve even more from here.

    "I'll talk to Carlos [Rodriguez, Na's coach] after this, because I didn't get a chance to talk to him yet, we didn't have time to see each other. We will definitely talk about the serve and what I'm doing, and what we can improve moving forward." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Tuesday, Na will play 26 year old #268 (career high: #21) Aleksandra Wozniak from Blainville, Canada.

    Na leads Aleksandra 2-1 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Na defeated Aleksandra 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.

    On Sunday at Indian Wells, in the 3rd round of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 4th round on Tuesday, Genie will play
    Simona and Genie have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Sunday at Indian Wells, defeated 6(4)-7, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 4th round on Tuesday, Alize will play
    Agnieszka leads Alize 2-0 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on an indoor hardcourt in the 2nd round at Linz, Aga defeated Alize 6-4, 7-5.


    Na and Karolina will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.
    On Saturday at Indian Wells, in the 2nd round of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria dominated the 1st set, but the 2nd set remained on serve until Maria broke Julia as she was serving to stay in at 4-5.

    Maria said: "First matches can be tricky, but I felt like I played well. Overall I had a good day."

    In the 3rd round on Monday, Maria will play
    Maria and Camila have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Saturday at Indian Wells, defeated 6-1, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Na said: "I'm happy with the result today, but I still feel I have so many things I can improve. This was my first match since Doha three weeks ago, and I probably won't be 100% for my first match back. But I was happy I could at least learn some things from today's match." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Monday, Na will play
    Na and Karolina will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Friday at Indian Wells, in the 2nd round of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-0, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    It was Victoria's first match after several weeks' layoff due to a bone bruise in her right foot, and she was visibly in pain throughout the match.

    Victoria said: "I wanted to give my best shot. It was maybe a little bit too early, but I gave a fight... I think it's pretty good considering what I've been through. It's something you have to go through after injuries. I just need to see what's best for me now for Miami. Right now I just want to feel pain free. It's not the most fun to be out there like that." WTA story

    Lauren said: "It means so much to me. My first top 10 win... I know [Vika] hasn't played a tournament in about six weeks, so that gave me more confidence, that I've played more matches than she has. I commend her for playing through it though, for sure. I respect her a lot."

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Lauren will play
    Varvara and Lauren have met only once before, in 2012 on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Memphis, when Varvara defeated Lauren 7-5, 6-3.

    Also on Friday at Indian Wells, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "I'm just very happy I could play quite well today and win in two sets. Today was very windy and we were both struggling with the serve, so I'm happy I could make it through today." WTA story

    Heather dropped to 0-3 against Agnieszka. Heather said: "I felt [Aga] played better at the right times today. But I was right there with her. It was a lot different compared to the other times I played her. I felt I was right in there and had my chances, even though I didn't feel like I played that well.

"It was actually quite windy on the center court, and it was blowing one way, and I struggled with my serve a bit. But I still feel like I could have come through and won that first set. I shouldn't have given away that many free points there. But I'm a lot more positive about this time than the last few times I played her."

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Agnieszka will play
    Aga and Annika have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Friday at Indian Wells, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Genie will play
    Sara and Genie have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Acapulco when Sara defeated Genie 7-6(4), 6-2.

    On Thursday at Indian Wells, in the 1st round of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, defeated 3-6, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Saturday, Francesca will play her opponent in the 2010 French Open final,
    Samantha leads Francesca 7-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Tokyo, when Samantha defeated Francesca 4-6, 6-2, 7-5.

    Also on Thursday at Indian Wells, defeated 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Saturday, Jie will play her compatriot,
    Jie leads Na 4-2 in career matches; two of Na's losses were retirements. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome when Na defeated Jie 6-3, 6-1.

    On Wednesday at Indian Wells, in the 1st round of the 2014 BNP Paribas Open, defeated the 2009 IW champion (and 2010 US Open & Wimbledon finalist), 29 year old #637 (rank down due to injury; career high: #2) Vera Zvonareva from Moscow, Russia, 4-6, 6-0, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Shuai said: "Today the weather was a little bit hot and dry, but I had a lot of energy and wanted to get out there and play again. I hadn't played a tournament since Doha so I was very excited.

    "I've played Vera a lot of times, and I've lost to Vera a lot of times. In the third set it was really close, and we were holding our serve very well, but I just tried to find a way to break her, and I did." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Shuai will play
    Genie and Shuai have never before met on the field of combat.

    Shuai said: "I know [Genie is a] really young and a really good player, and she did really well at the Australian Open. I have to attack the ball first and play my tennis, and just fight as hard as I can."

    Also on Wednesday at Indian Wells, defeated 7-5, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Heather will play
    Aga leads Heather 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Agnieszka defeated Heather 6-3, 6-1.

Istanbul:

#6 Vera Zvonareva
5' 7¾" 130½lb RH 2H-BH     On Friday at Florianopolis, in the semifinals of the Brasil Tennis Cup, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Garbine is shown alerting the media after the match).

    Garbine said: "I played very, very well today - I played much better than the other days. I was much more consistent today and that helped me so much... [Yaroslava] was playing well today, staying positive and being aggressive." WTA story

    In the Florianopolis final on Saturday, Garbine will play
    Garbine and Klara are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the final at Hobart, Tasmania, when Garbine defeated Klara 6-4, 6-0.

    Garbine is 1-0 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 17-3 singles match record in 2014.

    Klara is 2-12 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 17-7 singles match record this season.

    Klara said: "Garbine is an incredible player, and improving a lot, so I really have to play 100%."

    Meanwhile at Acapulco, in the semifinals of the Abierto Mexicano, reached her first WTA singles final by defeating 3-6, 6-2, 7-5 (Christina is shown during her QF win on Thursday).

    In the Acapulco final on Saturday, Christina will play
    Domi leads Christina 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on red clay in the 1st round at Brussels, when Domi defeated Christina 7-6(1), 6-1.

    Dominika is 3-6 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 12-6 singles match record this year.

    Christina is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has won 1 ITF singles title and 3 ITF doubles titles. Christina has a 9-4 singles match record in 2014.

    On Thursday at Florianopolis, in the quarterfinals of the Brasil Tennis Cup, last week's finalist at Rio (and 2005 champ at Portoroz & 's-Hertogenbosch), 31 year old top seeded #34 (career high: #21) Klara (Koukalova) Zakopalova from Prague, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 5-2 retired when Alexandra could not continue due to a low back injury (Klara is shown during the match).

    In the Florianopolis semifinals on Friday, Klara will play
    Carla leads Klara are 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on red clay in Spain during the first weekend of 2014 Fed Cup play, when Carla defeated Klara 1-6, 6-3, 6-3.

    Meanwhile at Acapulco, in the quarterfinals of the Abierto Mexicano, the 2014 Australian Open finalist (and 2013 champion at Stanford), 24 year old top seeded #13 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 6-4, 7-5 (Domi is shown during her 2nd round win on Wednesday).

    In the Acapulco semifinals on Friday, Domi will play
    Domi leads Shuai 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Beijing, when Dominika defeated Shuai 6-0, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Florianopolis, in the 2nd round of the Brasil Tennis Cup, last week's finalist at Rio (and 2005 champ at Portoroz & 's-Hertogenbosch), 31 year old top seeded #34 (career high: #21) Klara (Koukalova) Zakopalova from Prague, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the Florianopolis quarterfinals on Thursday, Klara will play
    Klara and Alexandra are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the 2nd round at Brussels, when Alexandra defeated Klara 6-3, 6-2.

    Meanwhile at Acapulco, in the 2nd round of the Abierto Mexicano, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (Genie is shown after her 1st round win on Tuesday).

    In the Acapulco quarterfinals on Thursday, Genie will play
    Genie and Caroline have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday at Florianopolis, in the 2nd round of the Brasil Tennis Cup, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (Garbine is shown is a photo that might be from Tuesday or Monday; the WTA frequently uses file photos, and did not specify the date).

    Garbine said: "We both had a nervous start to the match. Then I started to play much better and didn't give her many chances. I'm just glad I was able to win before the rain came so I don't have to play tomorrow." WTA story

    In the Florianopolis quarterfinals on Thursday, Garbine will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Meanwhile at Acapulco, in the 1st round of the Abierto Mexicano (in gringospeak: Mexican Open), defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Domi will play
    Dominika leads Yanina 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on red clay in the 2nd round at Brussels, when Domi defeated Yanina 6-3, 6-4.

    On Monday at Florianopolis, in the 1st round of the Brasil Tennis Cup, the 2014 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 20 year old 2nd seeded #34 (career high: #38) Garbine Muguruza from Barcelona, Spain defeated 6-4, 1-6, 7-5 (Garbine is shown after applying some sunscreen in Florianopolis today).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Garbine will play the 2011 champion at Guangzhou, 29 year old #78 (career high: #37) Chanelle Scheepers from Harrismith, South Africa.

    Garbine and Chanelle have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Monday at Florianopolis, defeated 6-4, 1-6, 7-5 (Barbora is shown while defeating Jelena Dokic in the 2nd round of the 2011 Australian Open).

    Francesca is now 0-7 this year, and has lost her last 9 matches.

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Barbora will play
    Barbora and Yaroslava will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

Dubai:

#22 Flavia Pennetta
5'7¾" 128lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday in the United Arab Emirates, in the final of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, won again, defeating 6-3, 6-0 (Alize is shown during the match; Venus is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Venus has won 15 consecutive match victories on the courts at Dubai (she did not play there in 2011, '12 & '13).

    Venus said: "First of all, I think Alize is playing great. I think if she continues to play like that, she's going to play deep in a lot of tournaments and improve. It's great to see that, because she's a great addition to the game. She brings so much passion on the court, so it's great to see her playing well. I mean, I was fully expecting to play Serena, so for her to get that win was awesome. But I have had a good week. Everything is falling together pretty much, is all I can say." WTA story

    Alize said: "[Venus] was playing more aggressively. She was pushing me out of the court very far from the baseline. I didn't play as deep as yesterday and didn't serve as well. But Venus played well the whole week and deserves this title... It's always tough to finish like this, and I believed in my chances today, but I think there's a lot to be happy about, and I'm very motivated for the rest of the season."

    Venus now leads Alize 4-0 in career matches, and Alize has never taken a set from Venus. Their previous meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round of the Australian Open, when Venus defeated Alize 6-3, 6-3.

    Venus is now 45-28 in WTA singles finals, and has a 9-3 singles match record in 2014.

    Alize is now 3-4 in WTA singles finals, and has a 10-6 singles match record this year.

    On Sunday at Rio de Janeiro, in the final of the Rio Open, will play
    Klara is 2-11 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 13-6 singles match record this season.

    Kurumi is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has won 5 ITF singles titles and 3 ITF doubles titles. Kurumi has a 8-4 singles match record in 2014.

    On Friday in the United Arab Emirates, in the semifinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the 2013 champ at Strasbourg, 24 year old #25 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, won the biggest victory of her career, defeating 6-4, 6-4 (Alize is shown after match point).

    Alize failed to convert 4 match points on Serena's serve at 6-4, 5-3. But Alize served out the following game to love.

    Alize said: "It was tough to close it out because I had four match points the game before, and on the four match points she played unbelievable, so I was like, 'Okay, maybe she's going to put a little bit more on the important points now.' But I just tried to relax and breathe and pass my first serve at 5-4. I stayed focused and when the last ball went out I was like, 'That's it? I did it?' Then I was full of emotion. It's definitely the biggest win of my career." WTA story

    Serena said: "[Alize] played really well. I didn't play well. I tried, though. I just kept hitting errors. I don't think I've made that many errors in a match in at least three, maybe four years."

    Also on Friday at Dubai, the 2010 & 2009 tourney champ (and 5-time Wimbledon champion), 33 year old wild card #48 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (Venus is also shown after match point).

    Venus has now won 14 consecutive match victories on the courts at Dubai (she did not play there in 2011, '12 & '13).

    Venus said: "Caroline is an intense competitor. She has been since the very first match I played her in 2007, seven years ago. She's reached the pinnacle of the game and so she knows what she's doing. So it feels really good for me to be able to get that win today." WTA story

    Caroline said: "[Venus] played a good match. I started off very slow, and once I got going it was too late."

    Venus will play Alize in the Dubai final on Saturday.

    Venus leads Alize 3-0 in career matches, and Alize has never taken a set from Venus. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round of the Australian Open, when Venus defeated Alize 6-3, 6-3.

    Alize is 3-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 10-5 singles match record this year.

    Venus is 44-28 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 8-3 singles match record in 2014.

    Alize said: "Before this match I was telling my coach that Venus has been impressing me the whole week. She's back to her top level. I think she feels a little bit at home here in Dubai because she won here twice. I lost against her here in 2009, so it would be a little bit of revenge for me."

    On Thursday in the United Arab Emirates, in the quarterfinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the 2014 Brisbane champion, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "It definitely felt a lot more comfortable than my first match. There were some shots I missed today that I would never have missed a month ago, so I'm still getting a little rust off, but it feels good overall. And I'm still trying to make sure I keep going in the right direction." WTA story

    Jelena said: "It was kind of slow and heavy, and the ball didn't really go off my racquet. I was hitting the balls short. [Serena] took control of the match. She was pretty much in control the whole time. I didn't feel too good out there, and I wasn't really striking the ball the way I usually strike the ball. But she was the better player tonight. Way better. All the credit to her."

    In the Dubai semifinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2013 champ at Strasbourg, 24 year old #25 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Serena leads Alize 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round at Brisbane, when Serena defeated Alize 6-2, 6-2.

    Also on Thursday at Dubai, the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 33 year old wild card #48 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Venus said: "[Flavia] keeps fighting. She stays relevant. That's what she does really well. She stays in the point... I felt good. It was an adjustment playing someone like her. Her game is different than Ivanovic. I had to be more patient; the points are going to be longer. We have to be a little bit more measured. I think in the beginning of the match I wasn't really in that mode, but as the match went on, then I started to kind of self-correct myself a little bit." WTA story

    In the Dubai semifinals on Friday, Venus will play the 2013 champ at Luxembourg, 23 year old 8th seeded #11 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Venus leads Caro 4-0 in career matches, and Caro has never taken a set from Venus. But they have not met since 2008, when, on a Laykold hardcourt in the 4th round at Miami, when Venus defeated Caroline 6-3, 6-3.

    On Wednesday in the United Arab Emirates, in the 2nd round of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the 2010 champion at Marbella, 31 year old qualifier #22 (career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland), defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Flavia was 1-4 in previous matches against Aga. Flavia said: "I'm of course really happy. It was the first time I've beaten [Agnieszka] in six years. I thought I would never beat her again. But today I played really well. My idea of what I had to do was clear, and I tried to go for the points all the time. I made a few mistakes in the beginning. I was down 4-1, but every game was a big fight. But I kept going and stayed aggressive and it worked in the end...

    "Sometimes when you play with a player like Agnieszka it's not easy because the ball is always coming back. You have the feeling like you cannot win any points, because it's like a wall, completely. So you start to get a little bit frustrated and you start to make so many mistakes without making any sense. But you have to try to be aggressive all the time. Play every point the same way and don't go away." WTA story

    Agnieszka said: "I think I started well, but the conditions were worse for me than Doha, for example. The ball was really flying. I didn't really feel the ball today at all. And I think [Flavia] was using the wind much, much better than I was during the match. I just couldn't really control the ball that well here this year."

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Flavia will play the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 33 year old wild card #48 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Flavia leads Venus 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting in 2009 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Cincinnati, when Flavia defeated Venus 7-6(2), 6-4.

    Also on Wednesday at Dubai, defeated 6-2, 5-7, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Sorana will play the 2013 champ at Luxembourg, 23 year old 8th seeded #11 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Sori and Caro are tied at 3-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Toronto, when Sorana, on her way to the final (where she lost to Serena Williams), defeated Caroline 5-7, 7-6(0), 6-4.

    On Tuesday in the United Arab Emirates, in the 2nd round of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeated 7-6(8), 6-0 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "Today was really difficult for me. I felt so rusty out there and a little frustrated. I've been practicing, but I was like, 'Gosh, this isn't what I practiced.' But I was just really excited to get through that. I was really telling myself to stay positive, because I was making a lot of unforced errors that I don't normally make, and my serve wasn't popping the way it usually does. I'm happy for the win, but I'm going to have to play better if I want to do better here." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Serena will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday at Dubai, in a 1st round match, defeated 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 33 year old wild card #48 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Venus leads Ana 8-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the final at Auckland, when Ana defeated Venus 6-2, 5-7, 6-4.

    On Monday in the United Arab Emirates, in the 1st round of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Elena had defeated Venus in their two previous encounters.

    Venus said: "At Wimbledon [Elena] played so well and it wasn't my day, and Cincy as well. I had some chances there but she was clearly more on her game. These days I'm a little more on mine, so I was glad to get a win." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play the winner of Tuesday's match between last week's finalist at Doha, the 2013 Linz champion, 26 year old 6th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, and the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old #12 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Also on Monday at Dubai, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Sloane said: "It was a tough match. [Lucie is] a great player and she played really well. I didn't really get a good rhythm today, and she was playing some really good tennis at the end of the match."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Lucie will play the winner of Tuesday's match between a Dubai resident, the 2013 champ at Bogota, 28 year old 5th seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia, and 20 year old qualifier #120 Maryna Zanevska of the Ukraine (residence: Namur, Belgium).

    On Sunday at Doha, in the final of the Qatar Total Open, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "I feel very, very good now. I'm very happy I could win this tournament. It's amazing for me, because when I came here I didn't think I could reach the final, or win even. So it's amazing. It's the biggest tournament I've won. It's incredible here in Doha." WTA story

    Angelique said: "I made too many easy mistakes at the beginning of the match, but Simona played very well. She played at a high level the whole week. I was trying to play what I could today, I was giving everything I could, but she deserved to win the title. And I'm still happy about the week."

    Simona and Angelique had met only once before, in 2009 on a hardcourt in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at St. Raphael, France, when Simona defeated Angelique 5-7, 6-2, 7-5.

    Simona is now 7-3 in WTA singles finals; all her other titles were won last year. Simona has a 9-3 singles match record in 2014.

    Angelique is 3-7 in WTA singles finals; all of her titles were won indoors. Angie has a 16-5 singles match record this season.

    On Saturday at Doha, in the semfinals of the Qatar Total Open, the 2013 champion at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old 7th seeded #10 (career high: #10) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (Simona is shown after match point).

    Simona trailed 2-5 in the 1st set, then won the next 8 games to take a 7-5, 3-0 lead.

    Simona said: "I played really well tonight. When I was 5-2 down in the first set I told myself I have nothing to lose anymore, so I changed the tactics. I was still aggressive but played smarter. I started to play more crosses, more short crosses, and then I tried to finish the points with drive volleys. I also hit more drop shots as it went on. I think I played a complete game tonight. I'm very happy with the way I played." WTA story

    Agneiszka said: "For sure the first set I should have won. I was 5-2 up. It was just one break, but that first set was mine. But [Simona] was playing really well today. Everything was working for her. In some moments she was making unbelievable shots from nowhere from both sides and moving very well. At one point I didn't know what to do to finish the points, because she was just everywhere."

    Also on Saturday at Doha, the 2012 Paris Indoor (and 2013 Linz) champion, 26 year old 6th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 6-1, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    Angelique said: "[Jelena] was playing great at the end. I think it was very high level at the end of the second set, and I was just trying to play aggressive in the important moments and stay in the moment and just fighting from point to point. I was just happy that I won this in two sets at the end." WTA story

    Simona will play Angelique in the Doha Final on Sunday.

    Angelique and Simona have met only once before, in 2009 on a hardcourt in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at St. Raphael, France, when Simona defeated Angelique 5-7, 6-2, 7-5.

    Angelique is 3-6 in previous WTA singles finals; all of her titles were won indoors. Angie has a 16-4 singles match record in 2014.

    Simona is 6-3 in previous WTA singles finals; all of her titles were won last year. Simona has a 8-3 singles match record this year.

    On Friday at Doha, in the quarterfinals of the Qatar Total Open, the 2013 champ at Bogota, 28 year old 5th seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Jelena said: "Against top players, like Petra, you have to be at top of your game to have chance to win. I was just sticking to my game plan and luckily it worked. It's nice to be back in the semifinals here." WTA story

    In the Doha semfinals on Saturday, Jelena will play the 2012 Paris Indoor (and 2013 Linz) champion, 26 year old 6th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    JJ and Angie are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Brisbane, when Jelena defeated Angelique 6(10)-7, 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Friday at Doha, the 2013 champion at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old 7th seeded #10 (career high: #10) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-2, 6-0 (Simona is shown after match point).

    Simona is playing with an achilles injury. Simona said: "It was a difficult match. I couldn't prepare very well because I'm not 100%. I have an injury, and I can't run very well on the court. But I was very strong mentally and just wanted to focus on every point. [Sara is] a great player and comes back very well and runs very well, so I knew it was important to just stay aggressive and finish the points, and the match, as soon as I could...

    "[The injury is] in my achilles. I feel pain, and when I'm running I feel it. I hope it isn't a very dangerous injury and that it will get better soon." WTA story

    In the Doha semfinals on Saturday, Simona will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 2nd seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Agnieszka leads Simona 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome, when Simona defeated Agnieszka 6(7)-7, 6-1, 6-2.

    On Thursday at Doha, in the 3rd round of the Qatar Total Open, the 2011 finalist at New Haven, 29 year old qualifier #133 (career high: #28) Petra Cetkovska from Prostejov, Czech Republic, defeated 7-6(2), 2-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Petra struck 21 winners (including 2 aces) with 36 unforced errors (including 11 double faults). Na struck 39 winners (1 ace), but with 60 unforced errors (10 DFs).

    It was Na's first loss this season, after twelve straight match wins. Petra said: "Well, it's difficult to describe at the moment, because I've just sat down after coming from the court, and it's an amazing victory. But I'm very, very happy with the performance today. Even though I was 3-1 down in the third set, I managed to make it and get through. So I'm really, really happy, of course. It's an amazing win for me." WTA story

    Also on Thursday at Doha, the 2012 Paris Indoor (and 2013 Linz) champion, 26 year old 6th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Angelique is shown during her 2nd round win on Wednesday).

    Angelique will play Petra Cetkovska in the Doha quarterfinals on Friday.

    Angelique leads Petra 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round of the London Olympic Games at Wimbledon, when Angelique defeated Petra 6-1, 3-0 retired. Petra could not continue that day due to an ankle injury.

    On Wednesday at Doha, in the 2nd round of the Qatar Total Open, the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old top seeded #3 (career high: #3) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-1, 5-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    It was Na's first match since winning the Australian Open last month. Na said: "It's always exciting and nervous to play your first match back. Also, [Magdalena] already played one match so she knew how the court was feeling. She was playing very well. It was very tough. But nobody said you have to win in two sets or lose in two sets. This is why we play best of three sets. Everyone has their chance. This is tennis. I was just really happy I could win in the end." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Na will play the 2011 finalist at New Haven, 29 year old qualifier #133 (career high: #28) Petra Cetkovska from Prostejov, Czech Republic.

    Na and Petra are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at New Haven, when Petra defeated Na 6-2, 5-7, 7-6(9).

    Also on Wednesday at Doha, defeated 6-2, 2-6, 7-6(7) (photo shown).

    Petra said: "[Venus] played all out today, and I don't really remember what happened, but I'm happy I was able to come back in the third set. I was fighting for every ball and felt really confident on the court, so it was a great feeling for me. In the end, it was just an incredible tie-break.

    "Even when she's injured or if she's not playing and then coming back, she's always playing great." WTA story

    Venus said: "[Petra] played well. I have to give her credit for that. I think I just started to rush a little too much, and maybe I wanted too much of a big shot instead of just working the point and getting the win... I think I pulled it together towards the end, but she came up with some really great shots."

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Petra will play her compatriot,
    Petra leads Lucie 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Sydney, when Petra defeated Lucie 7-6(4), 6-2.

    On Tuesday at Doha, in the 1st round of the Qatar Total Open, defeated 7-5, 1-0 retired when Daniela could not continue due to a right knee injury (Ana is shown during the match).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play
    Ana leads Klara 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the 2nd round at Moscow, when Ana defeated Klara 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Tuesday at Doha, the 2013 champ at Washington, DC, 25 year old #32 (career high: #31) Magdalena Rybarikova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 7-5, 4-6, 7-6(3) (photo shown).

    Magdalena said: "It was a very tough match today. Not only does Francesca have a tricky game, but it was pretty windy out there, and the temperature kept changing too. It was hot at the beginning, but then it got colder as the match went on. I'm just happy I could make the second round today." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Magda will play the 2014 Australian Open champion (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old top seeded #3 (career high: #3) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Na and Magda have met only once before, in 2009 on a chlorophyll court in the final at Birmingham, when Magdalena defeated Na 6-0, 7-6(2).

    On Monday at Doha, in the 1st round of the Qatar Total Open, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play
    Petra leads Venus 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Tokyo, when Petra defeated Venus 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(2).

    Also on Monday at Doha, defeated the 2012 champ at Tokyo and Sofia, 31 year old qualifier #100 (career high: #3) Nadia Petrova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), 7-6(5), 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Shuai will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Astana:

#340 Sabina Sharipova
5' 9" ?lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Cleveland, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Fed Cup World Group competition, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The match win clinched victory for the Italians over the Americans in the best of five, 3-0.

    Karin said: "I think it means a lot because I think we won against a really tough, tough team... We won here in America. Winning out of home, it's never easy." ITF story

    Karin served for the match leading 5-2 in the 2nd set, But Alison broke Karin and won the next two games as well, to even the score at 5-5. Then Karin broke Alison and served out the match.

    Alison said: "Obviously, it was a big-pressure match as I was trying to win to keep America alive. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to do so. But it was a great experience. I actually felt extremely comfortable out there. I just felt like Knapp played exceptionally well."

    In what is now standard Fed Cup procedure when the outcome has already been decided, the 4th singles match was not played. In the "dead" doubles rubber, Americans Madison Keys and Lauren Davis defeated Italians Alice Matteucci & Natassja Burnett 6-2, 6-3, making the final score Italy 3, USA 1.

    The Italians will play the winner of Czech Republic at Spain in the Fed Cup semifinals, April 19-20. Rain in Spain stopped play on Sunday, so the Czech-Spanish outcome will not be decided until Monday.

    Meanwhile, at Bratislava, Slovak Republic, defeated 6-3, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    The win clinched victory for Germany over Slovakia, 3-0. The fourth singles was not played, and the Slovaks won the doubles, making the final score Germany 3, Slovak Republic 1.

    Angelique said: "It was tough, so I was just trying to play point-by-point. I think I played well, I moved well, I mixed it up well, sometimes aggressive, sometimes defensive, and I’m so happy that we’re now through." ITF story

    Germany will play Australia in the Fed Cup semifinals, April 19-20. Australia has choice of ground for that semifinal. This is not convenient for the players, many of whom will be entered in the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart, where main draw play begins on April 21.

    In the World Group playoffs on April 19-20, WG R1 losers USA, Slovakia, Russia and (Czech Rep OR Spain) will compete along with World Group II winners Canada, France, Argentina and Poland. Winners of the World Group playoffs will play in the World Group in 2015 (actually competing for the Fed Cup); losers will play in World Group II (competing to get into the World Group in 2016).

    On Saturday at Cleveland, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Fed Cup World Group competition, the 2008 finalist at Antwerp, 26 year old #40 (career high: #35) Karin Knapp from Lutago, Italy, defeated 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 (photo shown)

    It was not much of a show. Karin hit 30 winners with 57 unforced errors. However, Christina hit only 12 winners, with 49 UEs.

    Karin said: "In the second set I was a little bit too much playing just cross-court, so Christina was always waiting there. She knew that I was playing there. In the third set I changed a little bit up, and I think this was the difference." postmatch interview

    Christina said: "Early on I had some chances. In the third, especially, that first game I had two breakpoints. In my next service game, it was a close game. I feel like once she got those first two games, she really just started playing and really going for all her shots. She started serving better. By giving her that lead she really relaxed I think and started playing much better." postmatch interview

    Also on Saturday at Cleveland, defeated 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown)

    Though Camila struck only 7 winners, with 27 unforced errors, Madison fared far worse: her 8 winners were accompanied by 47 unforced errors.

    The two wins gave Italy a seemingly insurmountable 2-0 lead over USA, with 3 matches to play on Sunday.

    Camila said: "Was good I play like this. I came into the court, I was not nervous. Was good. Especially I was feeling good... I was not tense, so this make me more confident." postmatch interview

    Madison said: "All credit to [Camila]. She was playing amazingly. I felt like every time I was trying to get back into a point, hit a good shot, she was hitting another really good one right back at me. I tried to do my best. I thought I fought to the very end. I can only control so many things. Great job to her today." postmatch interview

    Australia, after defeating Russia 4-0, will play the winner of Germany at Slovakia in the Fed Cup semifinals, April 19-20. The winner of Italy at USA will play the winner of Czech Republic at Spain in the other semi.

    In 2014 Fed Cup zonal play on Wednesday, at Budapest, Hungary, #162 Heather Watson of Great Britain defeated #705 Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia 7-5, 6-1 (photo shown), and the British advanced to the Europe/Africa Zone Group I playoffs by defeating the Latvians 2-1. ITF details page

    Meanwhile, in Astana, Kazakhstan, #340 Sabina Sharipova of Uzbekistan defeated #312 Liu Fangzhou of China 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown), and the Uzbeks advanced to the Asia/Oceania Zone Group I playoffs by defeating China 2-1. The Chinese team was without Na Li or Jie Zheng. Shuai Peng traveled with the Chinese team but did not play, and Shuai Zhang played doubles, but not singles. ITF details page

Paris:

#30 Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova
5'10" 159lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Paris, in the semifinals of the GDF Suez Open, defeated 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Sara and Anastasia had met only once before, in 2011 on an indoor hardcourt in the Fed Cup semifinals at Moscow, when Anastasia defeated Sara 7-6(5), 7-6(4).

    Anastasia is now 6-3 in WTA singles finals. She has a 8-3 singles match record this season.

    Sara is now 7-8 in WTA singles finals. She has a 6-4 singles match record in 2014.

    On Sunday at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the final of the Pattaya Women's Open, defeated 6-3, 7-6(7) (Ekaterina is shown with the ceramicware after the match).

    Ekaterina said: "I was a little bit angry in the tie-break because [Karolina] served really well twice and then returned one just on the line, and then it was 5-all again. Then I missed an easy ball, and it was set point. Luckily she hit her first double fault of the match then. But she had another set point after that and I just tried to keep playing everything in the court and be aggressive at the same time.
    "Of course, I'm really happy I could win today. It was a nervous ending and a really tough match, and she was playing really great tennis today. She was serving especially well. I needed to be very focused on my returns to make the points. This is my second WTA title, so I'm really happy about it." WTA story

    Karolina said: "I think [Ekaterina] played better than me the whole match. The last two matches I won from two match points down and from 0-3 in the third, so I just tried to stay in the match in the second set and just tried to fight, because I thought it might happen again. But in the end it didn't. I was really close to getting it to a third set but she was playing too well today."

    Kate & Karolina had never before met on the field of combat.

    Ekaterina is now 2-2 in WTA singles finals. She has a 9-2 singles match record this year.

    Karolina is now 1-1 in WTA singles finals. Her 2013 singles match record is 6-3.

    On Saturday at Paris, in the semifinals of the GDF Suez Open, the 2013 Monterrey champion, 22 year old #30 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia, defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Anastasia said: "I'm very happy with my performance today. Maria's so tough and she's always fighting until the end, so I'm happy I stuck with my game and kept fighting out there as well.
    "I had to serve well. I had no choice today, because Maria has one of the best returns on the tour. We played a few years ago and she broke me a lot of times so that was a key for her to win again today, and I just tried to serve the best I could today. It was working well, so I'm very happy with it." WTA story

    Maria said: "I started the match really well, but as the match continued I wasn't doing the things that really helped me in the first set. I wasn't being aggressive, I wasn't in the court. [Anastasia] was playing with a lot of confidence in the match and I gave her that opportunity to step in and play her game. She was serving really well out there. She just played a really good match today."

    The match ended with two double faults by Maria. Maria said: "They obviously came at the wrong time. When I was down in games in the first couple of sets I felt my serve really helped me, but in the third set I didn't keep that level up. I definitely need to improve that percentage going forward."

    Maria will leave on Sunday for Sochi, where she will work for NBC Sports as a commentator at the 2014 Winter Olympic Games.

    Also on Saturday at Paris, the 2013 Paris Indoor finalist (and champion at Acapulco), 26 year old 3rd seeded #7 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy, defeated 7-6(3), 3-6, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    Sara will play Anastasia in the Paris final on Sunday.

    Sara and Anastasia have met only once before, in 2011 on an indoor hardcourt in the Fed Cup semifinals at Moscow, when Anastasia defeated Sara 7-6(5), 7-6(4).

    Sara is 7-7 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 6-3 singles match record in 2014.

    Anastasia is 5-3 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 7-3 singles match record this season.

    On Sunday at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the final of the Pattaya Women's Open, will play the 2013 champion at Kuala Lumpur, 21 year old #70 (career high: #63) Karolina Pliskova from Louny, Czech Republic.

    Kate & Karolina have never before met on the field of combat.

    Ekaterina is 1-2 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 8-2 singles match record this year.

    Karolina is 1-0 in previous WTA singles finals. Her 2013 singles match record is 6-2.

    On Friday at Paris, in the quarterfinals of the GDF Suez Open, the 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart, 26 year old top seeded #3 (last week; this week at #5; former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the Paris semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play the 2013 Monterrey champion, 22 year old #30 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia.

    Maria and Anastasia have met only once before, in 2010 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Cincinnati, when Maria defeated Anastasia 6-4, 3-6, 6-2.

    Maria said: "We haven't played against each other in quite a bit of time. [Anastasia] playing really well this year and had a great win today, so I'm sure she'll be really confident going into tomorrow. It's always tough to play another Russian but it's good to know one of us will be in the finals." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Paris, the 2013 champ at Strasbourg, 24 year old #25 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, defeated 7-6(6), 5-7, 6-3 (Alize is shown after match point).

    Alize trailed 1-5 in the 1st set, then won the next four games and managed to reach the tiebreaker.

    In the Paris semifinals on Saturday, Alize will play the winner of Friday's late match between the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 26 year old 3rd seeded #7 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy, and
    On Thursday at Paris, in the 2nd round of the GDF Suez Open, the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 26 year old #40 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "I practice a lot with [Kristina], and we are actually quite good friends because we are both originally from Serbia... I was really aware of her aggressive play and her great first serve... so I was kind of on my toes... I felt like I needed to step up my game and play my best to be able to go through." interview video

    In the Paris quarterfinals on Friday, Andrea will play the 2013 champ at Strasbourg, 24 year old 26th seeded #25 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Alize leads Andrea 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Washington, DC, when Andrea defeated Alize 7-5, 6-3.

    Meanwhile at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the 2nd round of the Pattaya Women's Open, defeated Thai wild card #353 Nicha Lertpitaksinchai, 6-3, 6-3 (Elena is shown while defeating Roberta Vinci in the 3rd round of last year's Australian Open).

    In the Pattaya quarterfinals on Friday, Elena will play
    Elena leads Julia 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on Har-Tru green clay in the quarterfinals at Charleston, when Elena defeated Julia 2-6, 6-2, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Paris, in the 2nd round of the GDF Suez Open, defeated 6-0, 6-1 (Maria is shown after match point).

    Maria said: "I had a tough first opponent who can play extremely good tennis. I wanted to start the match off well. It was extremely important to put that pressure on her from the beginning. I think I did that really well today." WTA story

    In the Paris quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will play the winner of Thursday's match between and
    Meanwhile at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the 2nd round of the Pattaya Women's Open, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (Sorana is shown during her 1st round win on Tuesday).

    In the Pattaya quarterfinals on Friday, Sorana will play
    Sorana and Karolina have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday at Paris, in the 1st round of the GDF Suez Open, defeated 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Alize said: "Playing in front of a French crowd is always amazing. It doesn't happen so often during the year so I'm really happy to play with my friends and family watching. During the tournament, I'm just trying to stay focused and taking each match as it comes." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Alize will play
    Petra and Alize have met only once before, in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round of the US Open, when Petra defeated Alize 6-4, 6-3.

    Also on Tuesday at Paris, the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 26 year old #40 (career high: #9) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Andrea is shown after match point).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Andrea will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    On Monday at Paris, in the 1st round of the GDF Suez Open, defeated 7-6(4), 6-2 (Klara is shown alerting the media after she defeated Alison Riske in the quarterfinals at Hobart on January 19).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Klara will play
    Angelique leads Klara 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a chlorophyll court in the semifinals at Eastbourne, when Angelique defeated Klara 6-0, 6-3.

    Meanwhile at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the 1st round of the Pattaya Women's Open, defeated 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 (Sabine is shown while defeating Magdalena Rybarikova in the 1st round at Brisbane on December 29).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Sabine will play
    Sabine and Andrea have met only once before, in 2012 on Har-Tru green clay in the 2nd round at Charleston, when Sabine defeated Andrea 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Melbourne:

2nd Grand Slam Title
9th WTA Singles Title     On Saturday at Melbourne, in the final of the 2014 Australian Open, won her 2nd Grand Slam title by defeating 7-6(3), 6-0 (photo shown).

    Na struck 34 winners (including 2 aces) with 30 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 5 of the 10 break points she reached against Dominika and totaling 75 points. Dominika hit only 11 winners (no aces), with 28 errors (7 DFs), while converting 2 of her 3 break points against Na and totaling 58 points. match stats

    Oncourt after the match, Na thanked her entire team, joked about her husband (who was in the stands laughing), and thanked her agent, Max Eisenbud of IMG, for "making me rich."

    Na said: "I think of course [I was] nervous, but also excited. I played a final here twice already, so I know the feeling."

    Dominika said: "I wasn't able to play my best tennis because Na played extremely well... Li's one of the nicest players on tour. I really like her and I think everybody likes her sense of humour."

    Na now leads Domi 5-0 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in 2013 on Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Toronto, when Na defeated Dominika 7-6(1), 6-2.

    Na is now 2-2 in Grand Slam finals and 9-11 in WTA singles finals. Na also won the title at Shenzhen earlier this month, and has a 12-0 WTA singles match record this season.

    Dominika was playing in her first Grand Slam final; she is now 3-6 in WTA singles finals. Domi has a 9-2 WTA singles match record this season.

    Sunday men's final: s1 Rafael Nadal ESP v s8 Stanislas Wawrinka SUI

    On Thursday at Melbourne, in the semifinals of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2014 champion at Shenzhen (and 2013 & 2011 Australian Open finalist), 31 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #3) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Na struck 35 winners (including 4 aces) with only 23 unforced errors (including 5 double faults). Genie hit only 10 winners (2 aces), with 14 errors (2 DFs). match stats

    Na said: "Beginning of the match I played very well. Second set was a little bit tight because I was feeling, "one set in target..." Like feeling one foot already in the final. But I think [Genie played] well today... for sure she can be a very good player." postmatch interview

    Genie said: "I think [Na] played really well. You have to give her credit. All of her groundstrokes were like a foot from the baseline and she was very consistent. Even her serves were really solid. I felt like she didn't give me much breathing space, much room to do what I want to do on the court. I tried to put pressure, but she just played too good at moments." postmatch interview

    In Thursday's other semifinal at Melbourne, the 2013 champion at Stanford, 24 year old 20th seeded #21 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Domi struck 21 winners (no aces) with 20 unforced errors (including 2 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 9 break points she reached against Aga and totaling 63 points. Agnieszka hit only 12 winners (2 aces), with 24 errors (2 DFs), while converting only 1 of her 9 break points against Domi and totaling 40 points. match stats

    Dominika said: "Since the first point till the last point of the match I was just trying to do the right things... Of course it was not easy when I was up in the second set. The thought started to come that I could win, the result and everything. I have to say, I was 100% ready for it and I was just doing what I had to do. That's why I won. It wasn't easy, because against [Agnieszka] you have to earn every point, you have to do the right thing, and that's what I did." postmatch interview

    Agnieszka said: "I feel [I was] like in slow motion today. I had a couple tough matches, especially yesterday. I think I was not fresh enough... I think [Dominika] is having one of the best tournaments that she's played in her career. Well, good for her." postmatch interview

    Dominika will play Na in the Australian Open final on Saturday.

    Na leads Domi 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Toronto, when Na defeated Dominika 7-6(1), 6-2.

    Na said: "I think [Dominika] has pretty fast legs on the court. Also she is a hitter. We play pretty similarly. So, tough match. Another challenge."

    Dominika said: "It's going to be final of the Grand Slam, so it's going to be a pretty big match. In the end of the Grand Slam, everything counts. So I think it's going to be fight for every ball. It's going to be my first final, so I will just try to enjoy it. I'm really looking forward for the match."

    Sunday men's final: s1 Rafael Nadal ESP v s8 Stanislas Wawrinka SUI

    On Wednesday at Melbourne, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 6-1, 5-7, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Aga struck 23 winners (including 1 ace) with only 15 unforced errors (including 1 double fault). Vika hit 33 winners (no aces), but with 47 errors (5 DFs). match stats

    Agnieszka said: "I really had nothing to lose. [Victoria] was defending the title, not me. I was really trying to play my best tennis, go for every shot I could. I'm just very happy because I really was playing great tennis." postmatch interview

    The win raised Agnieszka's career record against Victoria to 4-12. Vika had defeated Aga in their last 7 meetings, and the last 5 were in straight sets.

    Victoria said: "The first set and the third set, I think there was just too many mistakes and too many easy mistakes on important moments... Of course, [Agnieszka] was passing amazing today and getting to every ball. I just didn't have the focus on finishing the point so accurate. That definitely changed the momentum. She really took advantage of that. It was hard to come back. My game wasn't there today... But she definitely played really well." postmatch interview

    Also on Wednesday at Melbourne, the 2013 champion at Stanford, 24 year old 20th seeded #21 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Dominika said: "I'm really glad with the way I played, especially with the way I handled it mentally. It was a big win against Maria [Sharapova in round 4]... I walked on the court with the confident that I can do it again today. I was so focusing what I have to do, to do the right things. That was all what I wanted to do, and of course enjoy my tennis again." postmatch interview

    Simona said: "I couldn't play today. I had emotions, big emotions, and I couldn't manage this. Before the match I was very nervous and I didn't feel the ball at all. I couldn't move my body and I couldn't play. But [Dominika] played really well today, and she hits all the balls very strong and she moves really well." WTA story

    Dominika will play Agnieszka in the Australian Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Aga leads Domi 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Tokyo, when Agnieszka defeated Dominika 6-3, 6-4.

    In Thursday's other semifinal, the 2014 champion at Shenzhen (and 2013 & 2011 Australian Open finalist), 31 year old4th seeded #4 (career high: #3) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, will play the 2013 finalist at Osaka (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 19 year old 30th seeded #31 (career high: #31) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Na and Genie have met only once before, in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Montreal, when Na defeated Genie 6-4, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Melbourne, in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2013 finalist at Osaka (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 19 year old 30th seeded #31 (career high: #31) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 5-7, 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    The win put Genie into her first Grand Slam semifinal—and the first for any Canadian woman since 1984, when Carling Basset-Seguso reached the semis of the US Open.

    Genie said: "I played [Ana] once last year. I feel like she's playing at a much higher level right now. I know she won a tournament earlier this year, and she was playing really well. So I just had to stay with her and try to control the point a little more.
    "Having lost the first set, I just tried to focus on what I had to do during the point to try to win, really try to keep pressing her and moving forward. That's what kept me really calm, and I felt like my game kind of got better as the match went on. I just needed to relax a little bit and keep playing my game." WTA story

    Ana was slowed by injuries, but made no excuses. Ana said: "I was battling with my right leg since the beginning of the tournament. Then the left one came on today. Despite all that, I was still on court. I was doing my best. Today [Genie] was the better player...
    "In the third set she really was strong and played well, played well big points. She was aggressive. She was pushing me back, instead of me stepping in. That's where I sort of felt the match was turning. She's definitely brave. She's young. She has nothing to lose. I think she's a very great player with a bright future." postmatch interview

    Also on Tuesday at Melbourne, the 2014 champion at Shenzhen (and 2013 & 2011 Australian Open finalist), 31 year old4th seeded #4 (career high: #3) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Na said: "I knew [Flavia] was a tough opponent because I played her four times. Every time was tough. I don't know what happened today. Maybe I just play so well. Or maybe I try to prepare for the match [better] before I come to the court." postmatch interview

    Flavia said: "I would have liked to play a little bit better today... It was perfect for [Na]. Since the first ball, I think she played really well today. She's improved her game a lot. She's more consistent with the forehand, and her serve is working really well. She was making no mistakes at all today." WTA story

    Na will play Genie in the Australian Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Na and Genie have met only once before, in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Montreal, when Na defeated Genie 6-4, 6-4.

    In the Australian Open quarterfinals on Wednesday, the 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ, 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Victoria leads Agnieszka 12-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the semifinals at Doha, when Vika defeated Aga 6-3, 6-3. Victoria has won their last 7 meetings, and the last 5 were in straight sets.

    In Wednesday's other quarterfinal, the 2013 champion at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old 11th seeded #11 (career high: #11) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, will play the 2013 champion at Stanford, 24 year old 20th seeded #21 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia.

    Domi leads Simona 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Dominika defeated Simona 7-5, 7-6(3).

    On Monday at Melbourne, in the 4th round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2013 champion at Stanford, 24 year old 20th seeded #21 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    The win leveled Domi's record against Maria at 3-3. Sharapova also lost to Cibulkova in the quarterfinals at Roland Garros in 2009.

    Dominika said: "I had beaten [Maria] at a Grand Slam before. I had done it before. She knows me and how I play, but I also knew that she knew it would be a tough match. I was prepared to give 100% on the court today." WTA story

    Maria took a medical time out between the 2nd and 3rd sets, but her right shoulder, which kept her offcourt the second half of last season, is not troubling her.

    Maria gave credit to Dominika. Maria said: "I have a bit of a strain in the hip area, the trainer told me, but those aches and pains are expected when you spend a long time on the court, and you just have to play through it. I haven't been playing the best tennis of this tournament, but I found ways to win the last two matches. I tried to do that again today, but [Dominika] played extremely well."

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Domi will play the 2013 champion at Bali, Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old 11th seeded #11 (career high: #11) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Domi leads Simona 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Dominika defeated Simona 7-5, 7-6(3).

    Also on Monday at Melbourne, the 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ, 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "I'm happy with the way I played. We were very competitive. I know Sloane is a great player, a very tough fighter, and she was holding serve really well. I felt like I had a few chances but she came back strong, so it was important to stay in that zone and try to create another opportunity. I felt I was able to do that." WTA story

    Sloane said: "We had some long rallies and some long games, and I didn't convert on some of my break points or opportunities. It could have gone either way, but I just didn't win some big points."

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Vika will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Victoria leads Agnieszka 12-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2013 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the semifinals at Doha, when Vika defeated Aga 6-3, 6-3. Victoria has won their last 7 meetings, and the last 5 were in straight sets.

    On Sunday at Melbourne, in the 4th round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 14th seeded #14 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana defeated Serena's sister Venus in the Auckland final two weeks ago.

    Ana said: "I kept thinking and going back to that match against Venus. I felt in Auckland Venus was serving a lot faster than Serena today, and that definitely gave me confidence for today's win." WTA story

    Serena was slowed by a back injury which she incurred in practice before her 3rd round win over Daniela Hantuchova.

    Serena said: "I definitely didn't feel myself going into the match today. I made a tremendous amount of errors, shots I missed I normally don't miss, that I haven't missed since the '80s. I'm just not used to missing those shots. She made some great shots, and I just made way, way, a lot of unforced errors... It wasn't the best, but it was all Ana today. I thought she played really well."

    Also on Sunday at Melbourne, the 2013 finalist at Osaka (and the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 19 year old 30th seeded #31 (career high: #31) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada, defeated 6(5)-7, 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Genie said: "I felt the first set was a bit shaky. I feel like I still served well in the first, but I made too many unforced errors and wasn't being aggressive enough. In the second and third sets I really stepped in more and really controlled the points out there. And that worked really well for me." WTA story

    Ana will play Genie in the quarterfinals on Tuesday.

    Ana and Genie have met only once before, in 2013 on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Genie defeated Ana 6-3, 6-3.

    Genie said: "[Ana] beat Serena so she's playing really well. I'm looking forward to a really tough battle. We're in the quarters now; she deserves to be there. No one's going to give it to me now."

    On Saturday at Melbourne, in the 3rd round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2008 tourney champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart), 26 year old 3rd seeded #3 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-1, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    Temperatures were about 30° cooler in Melbourne than they had been all week. Maria struck 35 winners, with the same number of unforced errors, a substantial improvement over her 2nd round performance.

    Maria said: "It was quite tough in the end today. [Alize] had a set point and a chance to level the match out. And I probably wouldn't want to go to a third set. So I was happy that I was able to finish it off in two... There are definitely things I'm going to have to improve and do better moving forward, because it's only going to get tougher, but I'm happy I took my chances out there today." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Maria will play the 2013 champion at Stanford, 24 year old 21st seeded #20 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia.

    Maria leads Domi 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the quarterfinals of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Maria defeated Dominika 6-1, 6-1. Their other four encounters were all on clay; this will be their first meeting on a hardcourt.

    Maria said: "[Dominika is] a great retriever of the ball... She plays a lot of top players extremely well... I'll have to be ready. I'm expecting a tough one in the next round."

    Also on Saturday at Melbourne, defeated 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    It was the third career win over a top 10 opponent (and second win against Caro) for Garbine, who missed the second half of last season after ankle surgery.

    Garbine said: "I know Caroline is a great player and a great fighter. I was really prepared for a big fight today. The key was to be strong mentally, especially in the third set, because we were both playing so well. To be strong and to just keep fighting was what made the difference for me...

    "It's a great win... It's amazing to win on center court against a top 10 player like Caro. So I'm really happy now." WTA story

    Caroline said: "I thought [Garbine] played some great tennis. She's definitely a good player. She has beaten good players before. She's on a roll right now. I think we'll be seeing a lot of her in the future, definitely."

    In the 4th round on Monday, Garbine will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Agnieszka and Garbine have met only once before, in 2012 on a Laykold hardcourt in the 4th round at Miami, when Aga defeated Garbine 6-3, 6-2.

    On Friday at Melbourne, in the 3rd round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2014 Brisbane champ (and 5-time AO champion), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena won despite hitting only 11 winners with 18 unforced errors.

    Serena said: "I wasn't fully on today, so I was just trying to see if I could just go for it and how far out they were going to be. But I feel good to have gotten through that one. The conditions were tough out there." WTA story

    Also on Wednesday at Melbourne, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 14th seeded #14 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6(8)-7, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I thought it was a great quality match today. I'm just really happy after losing the first set to still stay composed, and play some good tennis and win. It was very exciting match I think for everyone. It was such a high level of tennis from the first moment on. The crowd was really into it. I got into it, too, and I enjoyed it." WTA story

    Serena will play Ana in the 4th round on Saturday.

    Serena leads Ana 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals of the US Open, when Serena defeated Ana 6-1, 6-3.

    On Thursday at Melbourne, in the 2nd round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2008 tourney champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart), 26 year old 3rd seeded #3 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-3, 4-6, 10-8 (photo shown).
    With temperatures reaching 107°F., the Australian Open heat rule was invoked during the 3rd set. The rule requires that the roofs be closed over Rod Laver and Hisense Arenas, and play on the outside courts be suspended until temperatures cooled off in the evening.

    Maria and Karin were playing in Rod Laver Arena. But the heat rule states that the current set must be completed before the roof can be closed. So the ladies had to play the entire 3 hour and 28 minute match in the heat.

    Maria said: "There's no way of getting around the fact that the conditions were extremely difficult, and have been like that the last few days. But you're really just trying to get through the match in the best possible way... I thought [Karin] played really great tennis as the match went on." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Maria will play the 2013 champ at Strasbourg, 23 year old 26th seeded #25 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Maria and Alize have met only once before, in 2012 on red clay in the 2nd round at Stuttgart, when Maria, on her way to the title, won 6-3, 1-0 retired. Alize was unable to continue that day due to a right shoulder injury.

    Also on Thursday at Melbourne, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Barbora made 30 trips to the net during the match. Victoria said: "There was a moment when I think I just dropped my intensity a little bit and was watching [Barbora] a little bit too much. She obviously played amazing defense today, getting a lot of balls back. But I'm glad I could just turn it around in the end and get back to how I was playing in the first set...
    "She's a very tricky player and can do a lot of things. I felt like she was really brave out there. She even came to the net with a second serve. She went for her shots. Sometimes it was surprising, but I realized I just had to be alert on every point because you don't know what's coming." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Vika will play
    Victoria and Yvonne have met only once before, in 2010 on red clay in the 1st round at Marbella, Spain, when Vika defeated Yvonne 6-3, 6-0.

    On Wednesday at Melbourne, in the 2nd round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2014 Brisbane champ (and 5-time AO champion), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).
    Serena said: I think [Vesna] plays very solid. I don't think I had ever played her before. It's tough to go in front of an opponent you don't really know. You don't know what to expect, you don't know what to do. My coach kind of knew her game a bit.

    "She was actually a really good player. She hit a lot of deep shots and she was extremely fast. I definitely saw why she proceeded into the second round of the Australian Open."

    The temperature in Melbourne on Wednesday reached 106°F. Serena said: "I was happy just to get that win under my belt and have a chance to go to the next round. I think it was tough conditions out there. I think it keeps getting hotter and hotter. Every day is really hot. So it wasn't the plan, but it just so happened like that, and I'm happy to get through." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Friday (forecast: 112°F), Serena will play
    Serena leads Daniela 8-1 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 4th round of the US Open, Serena defeated Daniela 6-2, 6-0. Daniela's only win over Serena came in their only previous meeting in Melbourne, in 2006, when, on a Rebound Ace hardcourt in the 3rd round, Dani defeated Serena 6-1, 7-6(5).

    Also on Wednesday at Melbourne, the 2014 champ at Auckland (and the 2008 French Open champion), 26 year old 14th seeded #14 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Ana will play
    Samantha leads Ana 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was late last year on an indoor hardcourt in round robin play of the Tournament of Champions at Sofia, when Ana defeated Sam 6-2, 5-7, 6-2.

    Samantha said: "Last two tournaments last year we played, [Ana] won one, I won one. Couple three-setters in there. I'm looking forward to it. I'm happy to be in the third round. I want to keep going."

    Ana said: "No secret it's going to be a tough match. I had two tough matches last year against Sam. I lost one, won one. She's a tough player with a very strong game. I have to raise my level." WTA story

    On Tuesday at Melbourne, in the 1st round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2013 & 2012 Australian Open champ, 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 7-6(2), 6-2 (photo shown).

    Johanna served for the 1st set twice, at 5-4 and at 6-5, but Vika broke Johanna both times.

    Victoria said: "[Johanna] played really well. I can't say I was surprised by that, but she really went for her shots today. With these conditions, the ball bounces a lot higher, which suits her. It took me a little bit of time to adapt and find my range and my hitting zone. But she's really a very talented player." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Vika will play the 2011 champ at Quebec City, 27 year old #83 (career high: #39) Barbora Zahlavova Strycova from Pilzen, Czech Republic.

    Victoria leads Barbora 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on an indoor hardcourt in the 1st round at Luxembourg, when Vika defeated Barbora 6-2, 6-4.

    Also on Tuesday at Melbourne, the 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart, 26 year old 3rd seeded #3 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated the 2011 Hobart finalist, 28 year old qualifier #48 (career high: #30) Bethanie Mattek-Sands from Phoenix, Arizona, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria missed the most of the 2nd half of last season due to a right shoulder injury.

    Maria said: "I was happy just to play out there today, despite the heat (high: 107°F) or anything. I've been out of the game for a while, so I was just happy to be back in that Grand Slam atmosphere." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Maria will play the 2008 finalist at Antwerp, 26 year old #42 (career high: #35) Karin Knapp from Lutago, Italy.

    Maria and Karin have met only once before, in 2008 on red clay in the 3rd round at Roland Garros, when Maria defeated Karin 7-6(4), 6-0.

    On Monday at Melbourne, in the 1st round of the 2014 Australian Open, the 2014 Brisbane champ (and 5-time AO champion), 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 17 year old wild card #153 (career high: #129) Ashleigh Barty from Ipswich, Australia, 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "It was a little tricky out there. It's good to get through that match. She could be a potentially dangerous opponent. She's really good. So I'm just really happy to finish that one." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Serena will play the 2012 finalist at Tashkent, 24 year old #104 (career high: #84) Vesna Dolonc of Serbia (residence: Moscow, Russia).

    Serena and Vesna have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Monday at Melbourne, defeated 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Na will play
    Na and Belinda will also be meeting for the first time.

    On Saturday at Melbourne, in advance of the 2014 Australian Open, did a little racquet testing at Kid's Day, while practiced in preparation for the tournament (photos shown.)

Sydney:

#48 Bethanie Mattek-Sands
5' 6" 145lb RH 2H-BH     On Friday in Australia, in the final of the Sydney International, won her first WTA singles title by defeating 6-4, 6-4 (Tsveti is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Tsveti said: "I didn't really do anything that special tonight compared to the previous matches. I just kept the same level. I was just trying to keep the ball in the court as much as possible and as strong as possible, and when I got my chances I was trying to make winners. That's it, really."

    Tsvetana won only 11 matches all of last season. She is 9-1 in matches this year, with eight wins in a row at Sydney (3 qualy, 5 MD). Three of her wins at Sydney were over players ranked in the top 10. It is the first time that a qualifier has ever won (or even reached the final) of the Sydney tournament. The last qualifier to win any WTA Premier level title was Ekaterina Makarova at Eastbourne in 2010.

    Tsveti said: "When I think about what I've been through, not only last season but throughout my career, it hasn't been easy for me. Winning a WTA title is something I've been waiting for so long and something that I've missed so much. Now that I finally have it, it's all surreal. I still cannot believe it, honestly." WTA story

    Tsveti now leads Angelique 2-1 in career matches.. Their previous meeting was in 2012 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Tsvetana defeated Angelique 6-4, 6-1.

    Tsvetana was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 9-1 singles match record in 2014.

    Angelique is now 3-6 in WTA singles finals; all of her titles were won indoors. Angelique has a 6-2 singles match record so far this season.

    On Saturday in Tasmania, in the final of the Hobart International, will play (Klara is shown while defeating Samantha Stosur in the semifinals on Friday; Garbine is shown after she defeated Estrella Cabeza Candela in their semi).

    Klara is 2-10 in previous WTA singles finals; both her titles came in 2005, at Portoroz and 's-Hertogenbosch. Klara has a 5-1 singles match record so far this year.

    Garbine is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has won one WTA doubles title, last year at Hobart (partnered with Torro-Flor). Garbine has an 9-1 singles match record in 2014.

    On Thursday in Australia, in the semifinals of the Sydney International, a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist (and 2011 quarterfinalist), 26 year old qualifier #108 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, reached her first WTA singles final by defeating 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Tsvetana won only 11 matches all of last season. She is 8-1 in matches this year, with seven wins in a row at Sydney (3 qualy, 4 MD). It is the first time that a qualifier has ever reached the final of the Sydney tournament.

    Petra said: "[Tsvetana] moved well on the court and was very consistent. It was tough for me to hit winners because she moved so well. She also served well and returned my serve pretty well."

    Tsveti said: "Of course I got nervous at the end, but I was trying to cope with it. I feel incredibly happy right now. At the same time, I'm trying to stay grounded and focused for the next match, which is obviously the most important match of the week. So I can't wait." WTA story

    Also on Thursday at Sydney, the 2013 Linz champion, 25 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Angelique said: "I was just trying to focus on my game plan, trying to play point by point in the important moments, and it worked in the end. [Madison is] a talented player, and I knew this before the match because I had a tough match last year at Melbourne against her."

    Angelique will play Tsvetana in the Sydney final on Friday.

    Angelique and Tsveti are tied at 1-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Tsvetana defeated Angelique 6-4, 6-1.

    Angelique is 3-5 in previous WTA singles finals; all of her titles were won indoors. Angelique has a 6-1 singles match record so far this season.

    Tsvetana is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has an 8-1 singles match record in 2014.

    On Wednesday in Australia, in the quarterfinals of the Sydney International, a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist (and 2011 quarterfinalist), 26 year old qualifier #108 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, defeated 7-6(2), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Tsvetana won only 11 matches all of last season. She is 7-1 in matches this year, with six wins in a row at Sydney (3 qualy, 3 MD).

    Tsveti said: "I definitely felt good out there. This result actually makes me very happy considering the results I had last year. This actually shows that I did a good job in the off-season.

    "Last year was very disappointing if you exclude Wimbledon and a couple of quarterfinals. What happened? I really don't know... I think I'm just taking things easier now. I feel more relaxed and I enjoy playing." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Thursday, Tsvetana will play the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Wimbledon champion), 23 year old 2nd seeded #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Petra leads Tsveti 3-0 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the quarterfinals of The Championships Wimbledon, when Petra defeated Tsvetana 6-3, 6(7)-7, 6-2.

    Also on Wednesday at Sydney, the 2013 Linz champion, 25 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Angelique said: "It was not easy... [Carla is] a great player and I tried to be focused from the first point... I think I was playing very well tonight, and I'm looking forward to tomorrow." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Angelique will play 18 year old #38 (career high: #36) Madison Keys from Boca Raton, Florida.

    Angeliqe and Madison have met only once before, last year on a Plexicushio hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Angelique defeated Madison 6-2, 7-5.

    On Tuesday in Australia, in the 2nd round of the Sydney International, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Bethanie will play
    Madison leads Bethanie 2-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in qualifying at Madrid, when Bethanie defeated Madison 6-2, 7-5.

    Also on Tuesday at Sydney, the 2013 Linz champion, 25 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Angelique will play the 2013 finalist at Oeiras & Acapulco, 25 year old #17 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Angeliqe and Carla are tied at 1-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the semifinals at Linz, when Angelique, on her way to the title, defeated Carla 6-2, 6-0.

    On Monday in Australia, in the 1st round of the Sydney International, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ekaterina said: "We played in Cincinnati not a long time ago and it was a really tough match, and I lost against [Jelena] in three sets. Then I got injured and didn't play anything after the US Open, so it was tough to start again against such a great player.
    "The wind made things not that comfortable, but I just really focused on every point because I know she's the sort of player who doesn't miss easy shots. I went on the court reminding myself that it would be a long match, and I'd have to be very solid." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Katya will play the 2013 finalist at Oeiras & Acapulco, 25 year old #17 (career-high: #14) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Ekaterina and Carla are tied at 2-2 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 1st round at Doha, when Ekaterina defeated Carla 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Monday at Sydney, defeated 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Caroline said: "[Julia] was hitting winners from the forehand, from the backhand, and I needed some time just to get into the match. I'm really pleased about the way I fought out there. Maybe wasn't the prettiest match, but I was fighting. It's always tough in the beginning of the year."

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Caroline will play
    Caro leads Lucie 3-2 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Tokyo, when Caroline defeated Lucie 2-6, 6-3, 6-2.

    On Sunday in Australia, in the 1st round of the Sydney International, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Madison reached the quarterfinals at Sydney in 2013, with wins over Lucie Safarova ahd Zheng Jie.

    Madison said: "[I'm] really happy I’ve picked up from last year and started playing well. [Simona] fought to the very end. I was really just trying to focus on playing well and doing what I do well, and I think I did a pretty good." tourney story

    Also on Sunday at Sydney, defeated 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Ajla will play Madison in the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday. They have never before met on the field of combat.


    have met only once before, in 2012 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Sabine defeated Stefanie 6-2, 4-6, 6-4.
    On Friday in Australia, in the semifinals of the Brisbane International, defeated 6-2, 7-6(7) (photo shown).

    Serena said: "The quality of the match was very high, especially from Maria's end, so it was good for me to come up with a win in that match," Williams said. "We're both very strong returners, and personally I couldn't get a first serve in today. My first serve percentage was really low... But it was fun. Some of those points were really long and the intensity was so high. Maria was hitting extremely hard and I was retrieving a lot. So was she. My gosh, she was getting so many balls back." WTA story

    Maria was pleased with her progress in returning from a right shoulder injury. Maria said: "I had a few missed chances. It was tough being a small break up in that tie-breaker and also missing that forehand just a little bit wide. But overall I was happy I could compete at this level in my third match back. I really have to take the positives out of this, because I have been struggling for a few months. This was a good sign for me. It was definitely a good week and good test for me."

    Also on Friday at Brisbane defeated 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "Jelena played really, really well in the first set. I felt that I could have done better, but it's just the matter of getting that timing and really fighting through it.
    "I was able to change it around in the second set. I really tried to apply the game I wanted to apply, whereas in the first set it was a little bit out, a little bit short. So I had to get into that timing because I felt I was doing the right thing. It wasn't the best execution, but she was playing some really good tennis out there today."

    Jelena said: "As the match went on she was getting on top of me and I was going down. It was close until the end. Even in the third set, when I was 5-1 down and came back to 5-4 and just missed a couple of bad returns. I was stuck, I don't know why.
    "But so far so good. I played a good tournament. You never know what to expect from yourself after such a long break, but I think I did pretty well here."

    Serena will play Victoria in the Brisbane final on Saturday.

    Serena leads Vika 13-3 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at Flushing Meadows, when Serena defeated Victoria 7-5, 6(8)-7, 6-1.

    Serena is 57-17 in previous WTA singles finals, and had a 78-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Victoria Azarenka (twice), Sabine Lisicki, and Sloane Stephens.

    Victoria is 17-6 in previous WTA singles finals.

    Serena said: "It's a good rivalry. She's so intense on court, and off court she's so cool. So that's what makes the rivalry the best, is because when you step on the court I don't know her and she doesn't know me, and we fight like crazy. When it's over, it's over. There's a lot of mutual respect there."

    On Saturday in Auckland, New Zealand, in the final of the ASB Classic, will play
    Venus leads Ana 8-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Laykold hardcourt in the 4th round at Miami, when Venus defeated Ana 6(7)-7, 6-2, 6-2.

    Ana is 11-5 in previous WTA singles finals. Venus is 44-27 in previous WTA singles finals.

    On Saturday in Shenzhen, China, in the final of the Shenzhen Open, will play her compatriot,
    Na leads Shuai 5-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was a year ago on the same hardcourt in the semifinals at Shenzhen, when Na defeated Shuai 6-4, 6-0.

    Na is 7-11 in previous WTA singles finals. Shuai is 0-5 in previous WTA singles finals.

    On Thursday in Australia, in the quarterfinals of the Brisbane International, the 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart, 26 year old 3rd seeded #4 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "[Kaia is] a really tough opponent. I've had fairly good success against her in the past, but she's had her bit of success. She's won this tournament before, so I knew that she would be able to play on this court and she enjoys it. For me it was a slow start. I wasn't very sharp in the beginning. I'm happy I pulled it through, and at this stage it's a good match for me to get through." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Maria will play the 2013 champ at Istanbul, Beijing, Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane, 32 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL.

    Serena leads Maria 14-2 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the final at Roland Garros, when Serena defeated Maria 6-4, 6-4.

    Maria said: "I haven't had a lot of success against [Serena] in the past. But it's the first tournament of the year. I came here wanting to play as many matches as I could and wanting to play the best. There's no substitute for getting ready for a Grand Slam than competing against the best... You always hope that you can go out and give yourself a chance to do better next time."

    Also on Thursday at Brisbane the 2013 Australian Open, Doha & Cincinnati champion, 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-4, 6(7)-7, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Friday, Vika will play the 2013 champ at Bogota, 28 year old 4th seeded #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Victoria leads Jelena 5-4 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when JJ defeated Vika 6-4, 6-3.

    On Wednesday in Australia, in the 2nd round of the Brisbane International, the 2013 Australian Open, Doha & Cincinnati champion, 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "It's great to just finally be out there. It was a long wait. I couldn't wait to go out there... I was still getting into it towards the end of the second set.

    "I think towards the end it's important to just be the same way as you started the match and to keep that pressure, because in the end anybody can come back. They're loose. They have nothing to lose." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Vika will play 23 year old #50 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland.

    Victoria leads Stefanie 2-0 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Sydney, when Vika defeated Stefanie 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Wednesday at Brisbane defeated 6-2, 4-3 retired when Anastasia could not continue due to a left thigh injury (Angelique is shown during the match).

    Angelique said: "I saw that Anastasia had something on her leg and couldn't run at the end. It's not easy to play against someone like that because you know the other one can't run, but you need to try just focusing on your game as though she is still fit. You need to do that and just focus on yourself."

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Angelique will play
    Angelique and Jelena have met only once before, in 2012 on an indoor hardcourt in the semifinals at Copenhagen, when Angelique (whose 3 WTA titles were all won indoors) defeated Jelena 6-2, 6-1.

    On Tuesday in Australia, in the 2nd round of the Brisbane International, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "It was an intense match, which was really good. [Andrea is] a good player. She's been in the top 10 before and she was on her way to being even better. So it was a really good match for me. I usually have a lot of nerves, but when I realized who I was playing I felt like it was a really good opportunity for me to have a tough match early on. That kind of made me more calm than anything." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Domi 3-0 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 3rd round at Rome, when Serena defeated Dominika 6-0, 6-1.

    Meanwhile at Auckland, New Zealand, in the 1st round of the ASB Classic, defeated 7-5, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    Ana said: "[Alison] played really well and really aggressive today. I'm happy with the way I played in the second set. I kept fighting and managed to win in two sets, which was really good for me." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play
    Ana leads Jo-La 2-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Ana defeated Johanna 6-1, 6-2.

    On Monday in Australia, in the 1st round of the Brisbane International, handily defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Maria had not played since August due to a right shoulder injury.

    Maria said: "I think I was just really determined to get back on the court. It's been a while. I think the whole team was really ready to go out. I knew I was going to play Monday night a little bit ago already. I got goosebumps when I heard because I was looking forward to today even a week ago. It's those days you work for. It was a big step to come and a big step to play out there tonight." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Maria will play
    Maria and Ashleigh have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile at Auckland, New Zealand, in the 1st round of the ASB Classic, defeated 6-3, 7-6(1) (photo shown).

    Venus said: "I'd never played [Andrea] in singles but I've played her many times in doubles. I knew how determined she is and that I had to play really well. The first match you don't always know exactly what's going to happen and that you just have to fight and try hard, and that's really what I did today. It was a great first match, and I'm looking forward to putting better points together with every game." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play
    Venus and Yvonne will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Sunday in Australia, in the 1st round of the Brisbane International, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Sabine will play
    Sabine and Stefanie have met only once before, in 2012 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Sabine defeated Stefanie 6-2, 4-6, 6-4.

    Also on Sunday at Brisbane, defeated 22 year old wild card #174 (career high: #138) Olivia Rogowska from Melbourne, Australia, 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Kimiko will play the winner of Monday's 1st round match between and
Cagliari:

#13 Roberta Vinci
5' 4" 132lb RH 2H-BH Cagliari:

4th Fed Cup Title
2006, 2009, 2010, 2013     On Sunday at Tennis Club Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy, in the last day of play of the 2013 Fed Cup final, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (Sara is shown during the match, and the Italian team—plus veteran Francesca Schiavone—are shown with the Fed Cup afterward).

    The win clinched the Fed Cup title for Italy by putting the Italians ahead of the Russkis 3-0 in the best of 5.

    Sara said: "We are very happy. It was a very good week for us. I am happy with how I played.
    "I know Alisa, she is a great player, so with a lot of tension every point was important for us and it was not easy but I am really happy. I was focused on every point, there was tension, there is a lot of people here and it means a lot for us." ITF story

    With the title decided, the Vinci v Khromacheva match was not played.

    Flavia Pennetta & Karin Knapp then defeated Irina Khromacheva & Margarita Gasparyan 4-6, 6-2, (10-4) in the academic doubles match, making the final score Italy 4, Russia 0.

    On Sunday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the final of the 2013 WTA Tournament of Champions, defeated 2-6, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Simona's prize is $270,000; Samantha's prize is $135,000.

    Oncourt after the match, Simona said: "It has been a great tournament for me. And well done to you Sam, you played well all week... I want to thank everyone who came to support me this week, they helped me a lot. I also want to thank my team, my friends and my family, and of course Ilie Nastase who came to support me." WTA story

    Samantha said: "Congrats to Simona on playing a great final. She's a very good player - she got me a couple weeks ago in Moscow, and again it was very hard today - but I'm happy with the week I had."

    Simona and Samantha are now tied at 3-3 in career matches, but Simona has won their last three encounters. Their previous meeting was two weeks ago on an indoor hardcourt in the final at Moscow, when Simona defeated Samantha 7-6(1), 6-2.

    Simona is now 6-3 in WTA singles finals; she won all six finals she played in this year. Simona had a 53-17 singles match record in 2013.

    2011 US Open champ Samantha is now 5-14 in WTA singles finals; she won her fifth three weeks ago at Osaka. Samantha had a 42-23 singles match record this year.

    On Saturday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the semifinals of the 2013 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2013 champion at Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old top seeded #14 (career high: #14) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 2-6, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Simona said: "I played really well when [Ana] had break points to make it 4-1, and I'm really happy with the way I came back in the end. I'm a little bit injured in my leg but I'm very happy I was able to win today. Now I'm going to rest and recover and I hope to just come back and enjoy the final tomorrow." WTA story

    Ana said: "I really felt I was playing well, but I felt the match was a bit up and down. In the third set I created a lot of opportunities for myself, but my level dropped a little bit there and it was very hard to come back. I still felt I had a chance near the end, but [Simona] served very well in the last game."

    Also on Saturday at Sofia, the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad, 29 year old 4th seeded #19 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated 6-1, 1-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Simona will play Samantha in the Tournament of Champions final on Sunday.

    Samantha leads Simona 3-2 in career matches, but Simona has won their last two encounters. Their previous meeting was two weeks ago on an indoor hardcourt in the final at Moscow, when Simona defeated Samantha 7-6(1), 6-2.

    Simona is 5-3 in previous WTA singles finals; she won all five finals she played in this year. Simona has a 52-17 singles match record in 2013.

    2011 US Open champ Samantha is 5-13 in WTA singles finals; she won her three weeks ago at Osaka. Samantha has a 42-22 singles match record this year.

    On Friday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the last day of round robin play of the 2013 WTA Tournament of Champions, defeated the 2010 & 2011 TOC titleist at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 2nd seeded wild card #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), 6-4, 3-6, 7-6(1) (photo shown).

    Elena trailed 2-5 in the 3rd set.

    Elena said: "It's always tough to play against Ana. I started well today, very cleanly. I used a lot of pace and moved her around, and pushed to her backhand side. I was really using my chances. But Ana is a top player; she started to change some things, like she started serving better, and I started to have some trouble on my serve. The match turned. And then in the third set she was leading 5-2.
    "But I was just thinking it wasn't over, that every game was really close and both of us had chances, so if I just kept fighting for every single point I had a chance. It was just a question of fighting spirit. I got a bit lucky in the beginning of the tie-breaker and then I just took my opportunity." WTA story

    Although she lost the match, by winning a set Ana was assured of a place in Saturday's TOC semifinals.

    Ana said: "I played really well in my first two matches but today was not my day. It was a very tough match, especially in the third set, but [Elena] played really well and I just have to look forward. The most important thing for me right now is just to rest and recover for tomorrow."

    Also on Friday at Sofia, the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad, 29 year old 4th seeded #19 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Samantha is shown while defeating Elena Vesnina on Wednesday).

    The win put Samantha into the Sofia semis. If she had lost, Elena Vesnina would have advanced instead.

    In the Tournament of Champions semifinals on Saturday, Sredets group winner Samantha will play the runner-up in the Serdika group, the 2013 Monterrey champion, 22 year old 5th seeded #26 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia.

    Samantha leads Anastasia 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in in 2011 on red clay in the 3rd round at Madrid, when Anastasia defeated Samantha 7-6(4), 6-3.

    In Saturday's other semifinal, Sredets group runner-up Ana will play the winner of the Serdika group, the 2013 champion at Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old top seeded #14 (career high: #14) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Ana and Simona have met only once before, in February of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Ana defeated Simona 6-3 retired. Simona was unable to contine that day due to a low back injury.

    On Thursday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the third day of round robin play of the 2013 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2010 & 2011 TOC titleist at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 2nd seeded wild card #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad, 29 year old 4th seeded #19 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I played a little bit of a loose game at the end of the second set and was rushing a little bit too much, but I managed to calm down and start fresh in the third set. I started the third set in the same manner as I started the match, so I was very happy about that today." WTA story

    The win put Ana in a commanding position atop the "Sredets" group with a 2-0 match record, but did not guarantee her a place in the TOC semifinals on Saturday.

    Also on Thursday at Sofia, the 2013 champion at Eastbourne and Hobart, 27 year old 5th seeded #25 (career high: #21) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, defeated a 2010 Wimbledon semifinalist (and 2011 quarterfinalist), 26 year old wild card #119 (career high: #32) Tsvetana Pironkova from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 6-2, 4-6, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Elena will play Ana on Friday at Sofia.

    Ana leads Elena 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in June of this year on a chlorophyll court in the quarterfinals at Eastbourne, when Elena, on her way to her first Premier title, defeated Ana 2-6, 6-4, 6-3.

    All four players in the "Sredets" group still have a chance to make the semfinals depending upon the results of Friday's matches. The semifinalists from the "Serdika" group will be Simona Halep and the winner of Friday's match between Alizé and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

    On Wednesday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the second day of round robin play of the 2013 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2013 champion at Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old top seeded #14 (career high: #14) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    The semifinalists from the "Serdika" group will be Simona Halep and the winner of Friday's match between Alizé and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

    Simona said: "I was a little tired tonight and didn't serve so well, but I stayed focused and I'm very happy to be through to the semifinals. My match tomorrow is still important, because if I lose, it will not be so easy to come back two days later and play such an important match as the semis. I want to keep my winning momentum." WTA story

    Simona will play alternate Elina Svitolina (who replaced the injured Maria Kirilenko) on Thursday, and be idle on Friday.

    Also on Wednesday at Sofia, the 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad, 29 year old 4th seeded #19 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated the 2013 champion at Eastbourne and Hobart, 27 year old 5th seeded #25 (career high: #21) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Samantha said: "The start was definitely quite close. We both had a few opportunities on each other's serve at the start, and then at 4-3 I think she [Elena] 40-15 up and made a couple of errors, and all of a sudden it was deuce and there was a little bit more pressure on her. I managed to return quite well from there and get that break, then served it out. I think that was the main difference in that first set.
    "Second set, my level probably went a little bit down and hers a little bit up, and I found myself 3-0 down pretty quickly. But I regrouped and was able to play well again, and won those last six games." WTA story

    On Thursday at Sofia, Samantha will play the 2010 & 2011 TOC titleist at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 2nd seeded wild card #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Ana and Samantha are currently tied at 1-1 atop the "Sredets" group with 1-0 records. The winner of their match on Thursday will be in a commanding position atop the group.

    Samantha leads Ana 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was a week ago in the quarterfinals at Moscow, when Samantha defeated Ana 7-5, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Sofia, Bulgaria, in the first day of round robin play of the 2013 WTA Tournament of Champions, the 2010 & 2011 TOC titleist at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 2nd seeded wild card #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "It's always tough playing a local girl... I really tried to focus on what I had to do and I did serve well. I was placing the ball really well around the court. And I was really happy with that. It's tough to play on a new court so I'm really happy to win the match." WTA story

    Tsvetana said: "It definitely wasn't good for me. I didn't play my best tennis, and Ana was playing very well, with lots of strong, deep shots that made it hard for me to get into the points... I hope the next match will be better for me."

    Ana and Tsvetana will be idle on Wednesday; on Thursday and Friday they will play Samantha Stour and Elena Vesnina.

    Also on Tuesday at Sofia, the 2013 champion at Moscow, New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 22 year old top seeded #14 (career high: #14) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    On Wednesday at Sofia, Simona will play the 2013 champ at Strasbourg, 23 year old 7th seeded #27 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Simona and Alize have met only once before, in 2011 on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Monterrey, when Alize defeated Simona 7-5, 6-1.

    Simona said: "It will be a tough match because [Alize's] forehand is very agressive and I have to be agressive on court too. I have to be relaxed, to try my best and hope to win." tourney story

    On Sunday at Istanbul, in the final of the WTA Championships, defeated 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Oncourt after the match, Serena said: "I've just had a really long year... I really didn't expect to get through this match today... I can't believe I won. I was so tired. Honestly, did I really win? Because Na played so well." WTA story

    Despite the loss, Na will end the season at a new career high ranking of #3, highest ever for an Asian WTA player.

    Serena now leads Na 10-1 in career matches, and has won their last nine encounters. Their previous meeting was in September of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals of the US Open, when Serena defeated Na 6-0, 6-3.

    Serena is now 57-17 in WTA singles finals, and had a 78-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Victoria Azarenka (twice), Sabine Lisicki, and Sloane Stephens.

    Na is now 7-11 in WTA singles finals, and ends the year with a 44-14 singles match record.

    On Saturday at Istanbul, in the semifinals of the WTA Championships, the 2012 Istanbul champion (and 2013 champ at Beijing, Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena won despite having difficulty with her serve. It appeared at times that she might be injured, but she never called for the trainer, and after the match said she had no injury.

    Serena said: "I'm just really trying out here. I think my body's a little tired after so many matches. I think yesterday I kind of hit a wall. But I'm just fighting out here. Honestly I'm just happy to still be in the tournament, and I'm honored to be in the final again." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Istanbul, the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (Na is shown after match point).

    The win assured that Na will end the season at a new career high ranking of #3, highest ever for an Asian WTA player.

    Na said: "The top 3 was my goal for this year. I'm so happy I could catch it in the last match." WTA story

    Serena will play Na in the WTA Championships final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Na 9-1 in career matches, and has won their last eight encounters. Their most recent meeting was in September of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals of the US Open, when Serena defeated Na 6-0, 6-3.

    Serena is 56-17 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 77-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Victoria Azarenka (twice), Sabine Lisicki, and Sloane Stephens.

    Na is 7-10 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 44-13 singles match record this season.

    On Friday at Istanbul, in the last day of round robin play at the WTA Championships, the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    The win clinched first place in the Red Group for Na. Since Na won in straight sets, the win also clinched second place in the Red Group for Jelena Jankovic.

    Victoria injured her back when trailing 2-3 in the 1st set. The injury substantially limited her mobility, but she chose to play out the match rather than retire.

    Na said: "I know this is not the best way to win the match... If [Victoria] were healthy she would have been a very tough opponent today. Unfortunately she wasn't healthy...I hope the injury isn't too bad and she can come back soon." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Istanbul, the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Wimbledon champion), 23 year old #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 6(3)-7, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    The win secured second place in the Red Group of the round robin for Petra, placing her in the semifinals on Saturday.

    Petra will play Na in the WTA Championships semifinals on Saturday.

    Na and Petra are tied at 3-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Beijing, when Petra defeated Na 4-6, 6-2, 6-4.

    In Saturday's other semifinal, the winner of the Red Group, the 2012 Istanbul champion (and 2013 champ at Beijing, Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, will play the White Group runner-up, the 2013 Beijing finalist (and 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Serena leads JJ 7-4 in career matches, and has won their last three encounters. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at Beijing, when Serena defeated Jelena 6-2, 6-2.

    On Thursday at Istanbul, in the third day of round robin play at the WTA Championships, the 2012 Istanbul champion (and 2013 champ at Beijing, Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Wimbledon champion), 23 year old #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, 6-2, 6-3 (Serena is shown after match point).

    The win clinched first place in the Red Group of the round robin for Serena, meaning she will play the second place finisher in the White Group in the semifinals on Saturday.

    Serena said: "I feel pretty good. I was really aggressive tonight. Petra was aggressive too, but I think my serve did really well. I'm just glad to still be alive in the tournament. I didn't have any expectations coming here, I just wanted to come here and enjoy myself, and that's what I've done." WTA story

    On Friday at Istanbul, Serena will be idle. Petra will play the 2013 Linz champion, 25 year old #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany. The winner of this match will be the second place finisher in the Red Group, and play the White Group winner (yet to be determined) in Saturday's semifinals.

    Petra and Angelique are tie at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was four weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at Tokyo, when Petra defeated Angelique 6-2, 0-6, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at Istanbul, the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Na said: "I think both of us were playing unbelievable today... I was really happy I could play well again at the end of the match." WTA story

    Na is now atop the White Group at 2-0 in matches, with Jelena and Victoria Azarenka at 1-1 and Sara Errani out of the running at 0-2.

    On Friday at Istanbul, Na will play the 2013 Australian Open, Doha & Cincinnati champion, 24 year old #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Vika leads Na 6-4 in career matches, and has won their last five encounters. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the final of the Australian Open, when Victoria defeated Na 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

    Jelena will play Sara Errani on Friday. Jelena and Sara have met only once before, in 2010 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Jelena defeated Sara 2-6, 7-6(6), 6-4.

    If Na and JJ both win on Friday, they will finish 1st and 2nd in the White Group and be in the semifinals. If Vika defeats Na in straight sets, then JJ will finish 1st and Vika 2nd. If Vika wins in 3 sets, or Sara defeats JJ, things get more complicated, and may be determined by percentage of games won. full White Group breakdown graphic

    In the semifinals on Saturday, the winner of the White group will play the 2nd place finisher in the Red Group (the winner of Kvitova v Kerber), and the White group runner up will play Serena Williams.

    On Wednesday at Istanbul, in the second day of round robin play at the WTA Championships, the 2012 Istanbul champion (and 2013 champ at Beijing, Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    The win placed Serena solidly atop the Red Group at 2-0 with 1 match remaining. The top 2 players in each group advance to Saturday's semifinals.

    Serena said: "[Agnieszka] definitely played pretty well but I can always look to improve on some things. My serve wasn't as good, but you can't expect it to be great every day." BBC story

    On Thursday at Istanbul, Serena will play the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Wimbledon champion), 23 year old #6 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Serena leads Petra 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in February of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Doha, when Serena defeated Petra 3-6, 6-3, 7-5.

    Also on Wednesday at Istanbul, the 2013 Beijing finalist (and 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Oncourt after the match, Jelena said: "It feels incredible to beat Azarenka here in Istanbul. First of all I was so excited to qualify here and give myself a chance to play against the best players in the world once again, and to win today is amazing. Every match in the round robin format counts, and every match is difficult too." WTA story

    Victoria said: "It's been a long year. It's been a tough year. It's been tough two years, so that consistency I have been playing with, it’s sometimes difficult to keep all the time." Tennis.com story

    On Thursday at Istanbul, Jelena will play the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Jelena and Na are both atop the White Group at 1-0 in matches, with Victoria trailing at 1-1 and Sara Errani at 0-2.

    Na leads JJ 5-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in early September of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 4th round of the US Open, when Na defeated Jelena 6-3, 6-0.

    Na said: "When I play Jelena it's always a tough match. We know each other very well. I played her at the US Open, but that match doesn't mean anything tomorrow." WTA story

    On Tuesday at Istanbul, in the first day's round robin play at the WTA Championships, the 2012 Istanbul champion (and 2013 champ at Beijing, Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane), 32 year old #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I feel really good actually. I think I served really well. [Angelique has] beaten me before so I was really a little nervous and so focused going into this match. I really felt like I had to play well to win today." WTA story

    On Tuesday, Serena will play the 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Serena leads Agnieszka 7-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was three weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Beijing, when Serena defeated Aga 6-2, 6-2.

    Also on Tuesday at Istanbul, the 2013 Australian Open, Doha & Cincinnati champion, 24 year old #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 7-6(4), 6-2 (photo shown).

    Victoria trailed 2-5 in the 1st set, but broke Sara three times as she served for the set.

    Victoria said: "I think it's pretty normal to have a slow start. I hadn't played in a while, and to go out after a break like that against a Top 10 player is not easy. Sara's a great fighter. She was fighting for every ball and playing some great tennis. I was also missing too much, just some close misses.
    "But all of the matches will be tough here, so it's important to just find your rhythm. I turned it around. Sara makes you play every ball and brings every ball back, so it's important to step up and close out the points. I did a good job of that today against her. But the accuracy could be a little better." WTA story

    Sara, who is entered in both singles and doubles (with Roberta Vinci) at Istanbul, suffered a leg injury in the 2nd set and was unsure whether she will be able to continue in the tourney. If she cannot, first alternate Caroline Wozniacki will replace her.

    On Tuesday, Vika will play the 2013 Beijing finalist (and 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old #8 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Vika leads JJ 5-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Cincinnati, when Victoria defeated Jelena 4-6, 6-2, 6-3.

Moscow:
#22 Svetlana Kuznetsova
5' 8½" 161lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Moscow, in the final of the Kremlin Cup, defeated 7-6(1), 6-2 (Simona is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Simona's prize is $132,470; Samantha's prize is $70,728.

    Simona said: "Maybe Sam was tired because she won in Osaka last week, and after Asia I had about 10 days of break because I had a right shoulder injury. But I recovered well from that, and now I feel good, and my game was very good this week. Maybe I was just a little bit fresher today...
    "I've been playing more aggressively this year, hitting the ball very strong, and I'm more relaxed on the court and have been focusing much better on every point. I still have a few things I want to improve, but I will work on them in the off-season. I'm very happy with how I'm playing now...
    "It's been an incredible year for me. I've won five titles now. I feel incredible." WTA story

    Samantha said: "I think it was quite a battle to get to the tie-break in that first set. I was down 3-1 and got it back on serve, which was great. But [Simona] really got on top of me in that tie-break, and from then on it was a real uphill battle. But all credit to her. She played solid the whole way through today."

    Samantha still leads Simona 3-2 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Cincinnati, when Simona defeated Samantha 6-4, 4-6, 6-2.

    Simona is now 5-3 in WTA singles finals; she won all five finals she played in this year. Simona has a 48-17 singles match record in 2013.

    2011 US Open champ Samantha is now 5-13 in WTA singles finals; she won her 5th a week ago at Osaka. Samantha has a 39-21 singles match record this year.

    Meanwhile at Luxembourg, in the final of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Caro is shown holding the artware after the match).

    Caroline's prize is $40,000; Annika's prize is $20,000.

    In her trophy acceptance speech, Caroline said: "Annika, you're a great player and a great fighter, and most of all you're a great person and fun to hang out with off the court. Your team is very nice too. Just keep working hard and I'm sure we'll have many more finals in the future." WTA story

    Annika said: "I had a great week and played some great tennis, but Caroline was just too good today. When I lost my serve at 3-2 in the second set I tried to stay calm but she was playing great, so congratulations to her. She really deserved to win the tournament."

    Caroline and Annika had never before met on the field of combat.

    Caroline is now 21-13 in WTA singles finals. Luxembourg was her first title this season, though she reached the final at Indian Wells. Her 2013 singles match record is 39-22.

    Annika was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 24-28 singles match record this year.

    On Friday at Moscow, in the quarterfinals of the Kremlin Cup, the 2012 Moscow finalist (and 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad), 29 year old 7th seeded #20 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated 7-5, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Samantha said: "I certainly had a few things in my head today that I wanted to try against [Ana]. Right from the start it was all kind of working and my confidence started to build, and I was able to play well right through to the end of the match. So I'm pretty happy with how everything went out there today." WTA story

    In the Moscow semifinals on Saturday, Samantha will play
    Samantha and Svetlana are tied at 3-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Cincinnati, when Samantha defeated Svetlana 6-1, 7-5.

    Meanwhile at Luxembourg, in the quarterfinals of the BNP Paribas Open, a semifinalist last week at Linz, 23 year old #58 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland, defeated 6-3, 3-6, 6-2 (Stefanie is shown during her 1st round win over Mona Barthel on Tuesday).

    In the Luxembourg semifinals on Saturday, Stefanie will play the 2012 Roland Garros juniors champion, 19 year old #57 (career high: #46) Annika Beck from Giessen, Germany.

    Stefanie and Annika have met only once before, last year on chlorophyll court in the final of an ITF tourney at Shrewsbury, Great Britain, when Annika defeated Stefanie 6-2, 6-4.

    On Thursday at Moscow, in the 2nd round of the Kremlin Cup, last week's finalist at Linz (and the 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 4th seeded #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I feel good. I feel confident about my game coming from last week, and hopefully I can perform well this week. I'm really happy to be here and it's a great honor to be a part of this event." WTA story

    In the Moscow quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play the 2012 Moscow finalist (and 2013 champ at Osaka and Carlsbad), 29 year old 7th seeded #20 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia.

    Samantha leads Ana 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was one year ago on the same RuKort hardcourt in the semifinals at Moscow, when Samantha defeated Ana 2-6, 6-3, 6-2.

    Also on Thursday at Moscow, defeated 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the Moscow quarterfinals on Friday, Daniela will play
    Anastasia leads Daniela 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round of the US Open, when Anastasia defeated Daniela 6-4, 7-6(1).

    On Wednesday at Moscow, in the 1st round of the Kremlin Cup, last week's champion at Osaka (and 2013 champ at Carlsbad), 29 year old 7th seeded #20 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Samantha said: "Kaia can be a really dangerous opponent, so I really tried to start out the match well and on top, and I feel like I kind of carried on from Osaka. I thought I played really well today." WTA story

    In the Moscow 2nd round on Thursday, Samantha will play
    Samantha leads Alizé 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in a couple of weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Tokyo, when Samantha defeated Alizé 2-6 6-4 6-1 .

    Meanwhile at Luxembourg, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 2-6, 7-5, 6-1 (Andrea is shown at this year's Luxembourg players party).

    After losing the 1st set 2-6, Andrea trailed 1-4 in the 2nd—then won 12 of the next 14 games to take the match.

    In the Luxembourg 2nd round on Thursday, Petko will play
    Andrea and Karin have met only once before, in 2009 on a hardcourt in an ITF tourney at Biberach, Germany, when Andrea defeated Karin 6-4, 6-1.

    On Tuesday at Moscow, in the 1st round of the Kremlin Cup, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Elena will play
    Elena leads Roberta 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in May of this year on red clay in the 1st round at Rome, when Roberta defeated Elena 6(7)-7, 7-5, 6-4.

    Meanwhile at Luxembourg, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photos have been slow to emerge from Luxembourg; Sloane is shown while defeating Petra Cetkovska in the 3rd round at Wimbledon this year).

    Sloane said: "It was tough, Obviously playing a player I had never played before, or even seen play, was a little bit tricky. But I thought I played pretty good overall, so I was happy to get the win." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Sloane will play
    Sloane and Yvonne have met only once before, early last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in qualifying at Brisbane, when Yvonne defeated Sloane 7-6(3), 6-3.

    On Monday at Moscow, in the 1st round of the Kremlin Cup, defeated 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Alize said: "[Elina is] a very young player and very talented so I knew I had a tough match in front of me. I was very solid, especially in the important moments, and that's why I won." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Alize will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday at Moscow, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Svetlana said: "I was very nervous in the start of the match because I haven't played in Moscow in a while. I so wanted to do well that I was very tense and that's why I couldn't just play my normal game as I needed time to loosen up."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Svetlana will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and the 2012 champion at Memphis, 29 year old qualifier #102 (career high: #29) Sofia Arvidsson from Halmstad, Sweden.

    Meanwhile at Luxembourg, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Open,     On Sunday at Linz, Austria, in the final of the Generali Ladies, defeated 6-4, 7-6(6) (Angelique is shown holding the transparentware after the match).

    Angelique's prize is $40,000; Ana's prize is $20,000.

    Angelique had triple match point at 6-4, 5-4, 40-0, but Ana was able to reach the tiebreaker.

    Angelique said: "At the end I was just focusing point to point, and not thinking about the match points I already had. I was just trying to stay aggressive in the important moments and I think that was the biggest key to victory at the end... Ana also played a great tournament and a great final." WTA story

    Ana said: "[Angelique] played better in the important moments. I feel like I had more chances but just didn't use them. I hit some errors when I really needed the point. But it was a great match, and though it's disappointing to lose in a final, I had lots of good matches this week and lots of good wins, and overall it was a very positive week for me."

    Ana still leads Angelique 3-2 in career matches. Their previous was just over two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Tokyo, when Angelique defeated Ana 6-4, 6-2.

    2013 Tokyo finalist Angelique is now 3-5 in WTA singles finals. All of her titles came indoors. She has a 44-21 singles match record for the year.

    2-time Linz champ Ana is now 11-5 in WTA singles finals. She has a 37-20 singles match record this season.

    Meanwhile, at Osaka, Japan, in the final of the HP Japan Open, defeated 3-6, 7-5, 6-2 (Samantha is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Samantha's prize is $40,000; Genie's prize is $20,000.

    Samantha said: "I thought Genie played very well. She had game point at 5-all in the second set and went for the drive volley and missed it wide, and then I played a very good service game to win the set. That was probably the turning point. It's obviously great to win, but it feels better knowing you really had to fight for it." WTA story

    Genie said: "I definitely tried my best today. I feel like I was playing the right way in the first set, but [Samantha] raised her level in the second set and started playing much better in the third. Sometimes when your opponent plays really well, you just have to congratulate them."

    Genie and Samantha had met only once before, in April of this year on Har-Tru green clay in the 3rd round at Charleston. Genie defeated Sam 6-1, 2-0 retired when Samantha was unable to continue due to a right calf injury.

    2011 US Open champion Samantha is now 5-12 in WTA singles finals, and has a 35-20 singles match record in 2013.

    Genie was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 39-23 singles match record for the season.

    On Friday at Linz, Austria, in the quarterfinals of the Generali Ladies, the 2010 and 2008 tourney champ (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 3rd seeded #14 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-2, 6-4 ( is shown while defeating Yanina Wickmayer in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    In the Linz semifinals on Saturday, Ana will play
    Ana and Stefanie have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile, at Osaka, Japan, in the quarterfinals of the HP Japan Open, reached her first WTA singles semifinal by defeating the 2012 champion at Båstad, 21 year old #76 (career high: #35) Polona Hercog from Maribor, Slovenia, 7-6(4), 2-6, 6-1 (Kurumi is shown after she defeated Monica Puig in the 2nd round on Wednesday).

    In the Osaka semifinals on Saturday, Kurumi will play the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ, 19 year old 5th seeded #36 (career high: #36) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Kurumi and Genie will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Thursday at Linz, Austria, in the 2nd round of the Generali Ladies, defeated 7-6(1), 4-6, 6-3 (Sloane is shown while defeating Magdalena Rybarikova in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    In the Linz quarterfinals on Friday, Sloane will play 23 year old #57 (career high: #47) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland.

    Sloane and Stefanie are tied at 1-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was a little over two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Tokyo, when Sloane defeated Stefanie 6-3, 6-2

    Meanwhile, at Osaka, Japan, in the 2nd round of the HP Japan Open, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Madison said: "I started off a little bit slow, especially returning. I was making a lot of mistakes. But I felt like once I really got going and got a good feeling on the court, I played really well. My serve got me out of some tough positions in the first set and really helped in the second set." WTA story

    In the Osaka quarterfinals on Friday, Madison will play
    Madison and Jie are tied at 1-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round at Sydney, when Madison defeated Jie 6-0, 6-4

    Jie said: "I played [Madison] last year and this year, and she's had a big change this year. Before she just had a good serve and good forehand, but now her backhand is aggressive too. It will be a tough match. I need to focus on my return and get a lot of serves in. I have to serve smart tomorrow."

    On Wednesday at Linz, Austria, in the 2nd round of the Generali Ladies, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (Ana is shown while defeating Yanina Wickmayer in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    In the Linz quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play the winner of Thursday's match between and qualifier #156 Katarzyna Piter of Poland.

    Meanwhile, at Osaka, Japan, in the 2nd round of the HP Japan Open, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Genie is shown alerting the media after the match).

    Genie said: "I definitely think it was closer than the score. [Luksika is] very tricky to play and I actually lost to her last year in qualies...

    "I think I'm playing well but I still have a lot of things to improve and these are good tournaments to try and work on my game. I want to end the season on a good note and then start getting ready for next year." WTA story

    In the Osaka quarterfinals on Friday, Genie will play
    Genie and Barbora have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday at Osaka, Japan, in the 1st round of the HP Japan Open, defeated 7-5, 7-6(1) (photo shown).

    Sabine said: "I don't think it was one of my best matches. But at the end of the day, it's only the win that counts so I'm happy that I pulled it out." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Sabine was to play
    But, on Wednesday at Osaka, Sabine withdrew from the tourney due to a left hip injury, and Polona advanced to the quarterfinals by a walkover.

    Also on Monday at Osaka, defeated the 2012 Guangzhou finalist, 19 year old 7th seeded #41 (career high: #27) Laura Robson from London, England, 6-4, 6-4 (Kimiko is shown alerting the media after the match).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Kimiko will play her compatriot,
    Kimiko leads Misaki 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was a little over a week ago in qualifying at Beijing, when Misaki defeated Kimiko 7-6(5) 4-2 retired as Kimiko was unable to continue due to dizziness.

    The main draw for Linz was changed AFTER the draw had been held to add Angelique Kerber of Germany as a late entry wild card. Kerber was assigned the top seed in the s2 position, former 2nd seed Ana Ivanovic demoted to s3 in the s4 position, former s4 Kirsten Flipkens made s5 in the s8 position, and former s8 Klara Zakopalova was declared useeded. Numerous WTA players, including Ana Ivanovic, Alize Cornet, Andrea Petkovic & Barbora Zahlavova Strycova, have expressed their dissatisfaction with this maneuver.

    On Monday at Osaka, Japan, in the 1st round of the HP Japan Open, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Samantha had lost four of her last six matches.

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Samantha will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and qualifier #267 Belinda Bencic of Switzerland.

    Also on Monday at Osaka, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Misaki will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    The main draw for Linz was changed AFTER the draw had been held to add Angelique Kerber of Germany as a late entry wild card. Kerber was assigned the top seed in the s2 position, former 2nd seed Ana Ivanovic demoted to s3 in the s4 position, former s4 Kirsten Flipkens made s5 in the s8 position, and former s8 Klara Zakopalova was declared useeded. Numerous WTA players, including Ana Ivanovic, Alize Cornet, Andrea Petkovic & Barbora Zahlavova Strycova, have expressed their dissatisfaction with this maneuver.

    On Saturday at Beijing, in the semifinals of the China Open, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "Agnieszka... plays like magic, she can move the ball left and right—she can do anything with her shots. So for me today it was just important to try to stay ahead of her, or one step ahead of her. I just tried to do that today, and I'm happy with how things went." WTA story

    Aga has played Serena seven times and never won. Agnieszka said: "[Serena] doesn't really let you play. She's really pretty much attacking everything, all the serves, all the returns, and when she's really having her day, it's really tough. I think she played very well today from the beginning until the end. She was just playing too well."

    Also on Saturday at Beijing, defeated 6(7)-7, 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Jelena said: "I lost to [Petra] the last two times we played. She has always given me a lot of trouble and didn't allow me to play my game. And even today in the first set she was controlling the points. I was still there, but I didn't feel comfortable. But in the next two sets I felt like I went on top of her and took control. And then as the match went on I think she got a little bit tired out there, and then I had everything in my hands, pretty much." WTA story

    Jelena is the only player who has played all 10 Beijing China Opens (2004-2013). Jelena said: "I love China. I love my Chinese fans. They support me a lot. I feel great here... I hope to come here as long as I play. I'm really grateful I've had the success I have had here, and I hope it continues."

    Jelena will play Serena in the China Open final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Jelena 6-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in April of this year on Har-Tru green clay in the final at Charleson, when Serena defeated Jelena 3-6, 6-0, 6-2.

    Serena is 55-17 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 72-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Victoria Azarenka (twice), Sabine Lisicki, and Sloane Stephens.

    Jelena is 13-17 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 45-17 singles match record this season.

    Only two active players have defeated Serena Williams four times or more: Venus Williams (10 times), and Jelena Jankovic.

    Jelena said: "[Serena is] the most difficult player to play against... She has all the shots. When she's on top of her game, it's very difficult to beat her. Hopefully I can play my best so that I can at least have a chance."

    On Friday at Beijing, in the quarterfinals of the China Open, the 2004 Beijing champ (and 2013 champ at Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I felt I played really well tonight, especially in the first set. I played well in the second set too, but I think Caroline just played so much better and she lifted her game so much. But I think overall it was the best performance I've had this week, which I'm excited about." WTA story

    In the China Open semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play the 2011 Beijing champion (and 2013 champ at Seoul, Sydney and Auckland), 24 year old 3rd seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Serena leads Aga 6-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Toronto, when Serena defeated Agnieszka 7-6(3), 6-4.

    Also on Friday at Beijing, the 2008 Beijing champion (and 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old 8th seeded #10 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6(3)-7, 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Jelena delivered 7 aces, including one on match point (Lucie: 6 aces), and won 56% of her 2nd serve points (Lucie: 35%) while converting 5 of her 13 break points against Lucie (Lucie: 3/9 BPs).

    Jelena said: "I lost to [Lucie] the last time we played, in Fed Cup last year, so I was looking forward to playing her again. She's been in great form. She's had unbelievable results in the last month or so, winning Québec and beating top players in the last two tournaments, so I knew it would be a very tough match, and it was. She played great. She served unbelievably. It was a huge battle out there. She put me under a lot of pressure but I just tried to play my tennis and I'm happy I made it." WTA story

    In the China Open semifinals on Saturday, Jelena will play the 2013 champion at Tokyo and Dubai (and the 2011 Wimbledon champion), 23 year old 9th seeded #11 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Petra leads Jelena 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the Fed Cup final at Prague, when Petra defeated Jelena 6-4, 6-1.

    On Thursday at Beijing, in the 3rd round of the China Open, the 2004 Beijing champ (and 2013 champ at Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 7-5, 7-5 (photo shown).

    It was Serena's 70th match victory this season. Maria took a one break lead in both sets. Serving for the 1st set at 5-4, she had 3 set points at 40-0.

    Serena said: "I just thought, 'What else can I do except fight for this point and the next point. Maybe I got lucky a little bit. I just started to relax and kind of swing and not think about it too much out there. I'm obviously just really happy to get through this match today." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2012 champ at Seoul, 23 year old 6th seeded #8 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Serena leads Caroline 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the quarterfinals of the Olympic Games at Wimbledon, when Serena defeated Caro 6-0, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at Beijing, the 2013 champ at Bogota, 28 year old 8th seeded #10 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), crushed, killed, destroyed and double-bageled 6-0, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Jelena will play the 2013 champion at Quebec City, 26 year old #35 (career high: #21) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic.

    Jelena leads Lucie 5-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the Fed Cup final at Prague, when Lucie defeated Jelena 6-1, 6-1.

    On Wednesday at Beijing, in the 3rd round of the China Open, defeated 7-5, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Na said: "It's always tough to play against [Sabine]. She has a huge, big serve, and also forehand. She broke my rhythm a little bit today. I need three or four shots to get my rhythm, and sometimes she just comes and shoots the ball in one shot. So I was a little bit shocked, but I'm really happy to win. I don't think either of us played to the best of our ability, but we worked really hard on the court, and I'm very glad to see that no matter how close the score was, I stayed calm and controlled myself." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Na will play
    Na leads Petra 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Stuttgart, when Na defeated Petra 6-3, 7-5.

    Also on Wednesday at Beijing, in a 2nd round match, defeated 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Petko had defeated the 2012 Beijing champ, 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka, in the 1st round on Monday.

    Andrea said: "This is the first tournament that I've been able to really keep up my intensity and keep up my focus. I think I've played two good matches. Personally it's really important to see that I can still beat the players on the top level, two past Grand Slam champions. It's just a big boost for my confidence, no matter what happens now in the future. So I've been really satisfied with my game." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Andrea will play the 2013 champion at Quebec City, 26 year old #35 (career high: #21) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic.

    Andrea leads Lucie 7-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on one of the same Deco-Turf hardcourts in the 1st round at Beijing, when Petko defeated Lucie 7-6(5), 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Beijing, in the 2nd round of the China Open, the 2013 champ at Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Francesca had won only one game in her previous encounter with Serena, at this year's US Open.

    Serena said: "Even though the scoreline looked much easier at the Open, it wasn't an easy match. But as for Francesca playing so well today, I wasn't surprised about that... She was really motivating because she's a little bit older than me, but she's so fit and just played so well today. For me, it was inspiring." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play the 2005 Beijing champion (and 2013 champ at Pattaya City), 26 year old #19 (career high: #10) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia.

    Serena leads Maria 7-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in May of this year on red clay in the 3rd round at Madrid, when Serena defeated Maria 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Tuesday at Beijing, the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 4th seeded #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, crushed, killed and destroyed 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Na said: "I'm very satisfied with my form so far... I'm very happy. This year I'm feeling very relaxed at this tournament, unlike last year, when I had to make the semifinals to qualify for the WTA [Championships]. I told my coach [Carlos Rodriguez] this China Open is like a bonus for me. I'm just going to try to enjoy every match this year and we'll see what happens." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Na will play
    Sabine leads Na 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 4th round at Miami, when Na defeated Sabine 3-6, 6-4, 6-2.

    On Monday at Beijing, in the 1st round of the China Open, defeated 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "I'm very happy with my performance. I was happy with my movement and my serve for the most part, and I managed to get a lot of balls back very deep and very strong. Parts of the match were a really, really good level. Some parts I lost a bit of energy, but overall I'm very happy...
    "I always play really well here. I lost in the first round here last year but I was playing Jelena Jankovic, who was playing really well that day. I really like the courts. I really like the atmosphere and center court. I don't know, it's just a tournament that goes with my play somehow!" WTA story

    Victoria said: "It was an awful match and a very bad performance from me, so there's not much to say about it. It happens once, twice a year to every player, and it happened to me today."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Andrea will play
    Andrea and Svetlana are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Tokyo, when Andrea defeated Svetlana 6-3, 7-5.

    Also on Monday at Beijing, defeated 7-6(9), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Ana trailed 1-5, then won 5 of the next 6 games and the 1st set tiebreaker.

    Ana said: "I didn't think so much about the score in the first set, I was just struggling to find my rhythm in the beginning. Then I just tried to think of getting back into the match. I thought the first set was already gone, but then I started to play better, and then I basically played point by point. I didn't think I could come back in the first set, but I played well and stepped up when it was very tight.
    "I could see [Flavia'a] body language change in the second set, and then I started to play a lot better." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play
    Ana and Polona have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Sunday at Beijing, in the 1st round of the China Open, the 2013 champ at Flushing Meadows, Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (Serena is shown while alerting the media after the match).

    Serena said: "Elena served really well today. She's always had such a good serve. I knew going into the match that she mixes up her serve well, hits big ones, so I was just ready for everything." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Serena will play the 2010 French Open champ, 33 year old wild card #47 (career high: #4) Francesca Schiavone from Milan, Italy.

    Serena leads Francesca 6-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in August of this year in the 1st round of the US Open, when Serena defeated Francesca 6-0, 6-1.

    Also on Sunday at Beijing, the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 4th seeded #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-0, 6-4 (photo shown).

    After Na took a 6-0, 4-0 lead, Daniela (who had won their last two matches) won 4 of the next 5 games.

    Na said: "I had a pretty good start of the match until 4-0 in the second set. I saw it was 4-0 and I was like, 'Okay, maybe I should relax a little bit.' But at this level I cannot do this. You see the score in the second set. Relaxing a little bit just gives your opponent all the time they need, and a chance to get back into it. But I'm happy I could win in the end and at least pass through the first round." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Na will play the winner of Monday's match betwen and the 2013 champ at Tashkent, 21 year old #41 (career high: #38) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia.

Tokyo:

#61 Ayumi Morita
5'5" 119lb RH 2H-FH&BH     On Friday at Tokyo, in the semifinals of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, defeated 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(2) (photo shown).

    Petra said: "The whole match was very close. It was only about a few points in the end. I had a good start to the tie-break and I think every point in that tie-break was really important... Venus was a very tough opponent today." WTA story

    Venus said: "Today didn't turn out the way I wanted it to, but [Petra] played very well today... she was hitting a lot of unreturnable shots in the tie-break."

    Also on Friday at Tokyo, defeated 6-4, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    Angelique said: "I've been playing very well this whole week and I'm really happy to be in the finals here for the first time."

    Caroline said: "I just came up a little bit short today. But I have a lot of things to work on for next week in Beijing now. We have another big week ahead."

    Angelique will play Petra in the Tokyo final on Saturday. The match will be the first final between two left handed players since Quebec City in 2009, and the first Premier (big tourney) final between lefties since Paris (indoor) in 1994.

    Petra leades Angelique 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Cincinnati, when Petra defeated Angelique 6-1, 2-6, 6-4.

    Angelique is 2-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 37-19 singles match record in 2013. Both of Angelique's titles came at indoor tourneys, so she might wish for rain so that the roof would be closed on Saturday.

    Petra is 10-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 44-20 singles match record this year.

    On Thursday at Tokyo, in the quarterfinals of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 33 year old #62 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated (Venus is shown after match point).

    Venus said: "[Genie] played so well... she already is a great player. I was just competing out there today, just fighting until the end. It was disappointing to lose the second set, but to win the third set is the goal, so I'm happy I did that." WTA story

    Genie said: "I don't think I played as well as I can, but obviously Venus is a great player and she put a lot of pressure on me throughout the whole match. I never really felt in control on the court."

    In the semifinals on Friday, Venus will play the 2013 champion at Dubai (and the 2011 Wimbledon champion), 23 year old 7th seeded #11 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Venus and Petra are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Venus defeated Petra 6-4, 4-6, 6-0.

    Also on Thursday at Tokyo, the 2010 Tokyo champion (and 2012 champ at Seoul), 23 year old 4th seeded #8 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-1, 6-1 (Caro is also shown after match point).

    Caroline said: "[Lucie] started off really strong. She was really aggressive and went for it, and most things were going in. But as the match progressed I felt I was returning better, and I was getting a few more balls into the court. I was pushing her around a little bit more in the second and third sets...

    "I'm feeling good. I like to play here. I like the courts here, they're fast, and they suit my game. I feel like I've been playing well and taking advantage of the pace on my serve. Obviously it makes life a little bit easier out there when you start off the point well." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Caro will play the 2012 Copenhagen and Paris indoor champion, 25 year old 5th seeded #9 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    Caroline and Angelique are tied at 3-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the semifinals at Indian Wells, when Caro defeated Angelique 2-6, 6-4, 7-5.

    On Wednesday at Tokyo, in the 3rd round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 33 year old #62 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In her on-court interview, Venus said: "It was very tough. [Simona] played so well, she played amazing. I don't know how I was able to win today. I just wanted to stay in Japan longer and play for you guys! But I'm very happy to arrive in the quarterfinals. I'm taking it one match at a time and I like it." WTA story

    Rain caused the retractable Center Court roof at Ariake Tennis Forest Park to be closed on Wednesday. Two matches scheduled for Court 1, Cirstea v Kuznetsova (stopped w/ Cirstea leading 3-0) and Kvitova v Keys, were postponed to Thursday by the persistant showers.

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Venus will play the 2013 Washington finalist (and 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ), 19 year old #46 (career high: #46) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Venus and Genie have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Wednesday at Tokyo, the 2012 champ at Seoul, 23 year old 4th seeded #8 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-1, 6-1 (Caro is shown after winning a point).

    Caroline said: "I thought in general I played really well. [Magdalena is] a tough opponent because she's mixing up the game quite a bit, but I didn't let that hinder me, and I was just playing my game and putting the pressure on her out there. I thought I played really steady in the match today."

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Caro will play the 2013 champion at Quebec City, 26 year old #36 (career high: #21) Lucie Safarova from Brno, Czech Republic.

    Caroline and Lucie are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Dubai, when Caro defeated Lucie 6-2, 6-2.

    On Tuesday at Tokyo, in the 2nd round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 33 year old #62 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Venus said: "I don't think Victoria was feeling her best. Hopefully she'll be feeling better and ready for Beijing. Lord knows I know what it's like not to feel great. But other than that, obviously it's great to win today." WTA story

    Vika said: "I haven't been feeling well the last few days and haven't been able to practice. It has been very frustrating. But I got out there for the people. Everyone was waiting a long time for this match, so there was no way I wasn't going to go out there. I appreciate people coming out and paying for the tickets. They should see the players play. And I tried my best. I did whatever I could do today. But you have to be at your best to play against a top player like [Venus]. So all the credit to her."

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday, Venus will play the 2013 champion at New Haven, Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh & Nuremberg, 21 year old #13th seeded #18 (career high: #18) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Venus leads Simona 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on red clay in the 1st round at Rome, when Venus defeated Simona 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Tuesday at Tokyo, defeated 5-7, 7-6(7), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Genie took a 5-0 lead in the 1st set—then Sloane won the next 7 games.

    Genie said: "It was definitely an up and down match. I've known [Sloane] since I was 12, and I've practiced with her a lot, so it's always tough playing someone like that... I was disappointed with that first set, but she definitely raised her level. But then I kept trying and fighting, and even when my level wasn't quite there, I stayed positive. I think that paid off today." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday, Genie will play
    Genie and Jelena have met only once before, earlier this year on Har-Tru green clay in the quarterfinals at Charleston, when Jelena defeated Genie 6-2, 6-1.

    On Monday at Tokyo, in the 1st round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Annika broke Ana's serve in the first game of the match. Ana said: "It's tough to play someone for the first time. You never know what kind of ball is going to come to you, and even if you try and prepare for a new opponent, it's always different when you actually go onto the court. But you just have to adjust and see what kind of weaknesses they have too...
    "I'm very happy with the match today. It was good to go out there and get used to the court and the conditions, and I'm happy with my level." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Ana will play
    Ana and Elina have met only once before, in 2012 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round of the US Open, when Ana defeated Elina 6-3, 6-2.

    Also on Monday at Tokyo, the Japanese #1, 23 year old #61 (career high: #40) Ayumi Morita from Ota City, Japan, defeated 7-6(4), 6-3 (Ayumi is shown after match point).

    Ayumi was playing in her first match since she was sidelined by a low back injury at New Haven in August. Two other Japanese players, #63 Kimiko Date-Krumm and #92 Misaki Doi, also won on Monday.

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Ayumi will play the 2009 Tokyo PPO finalist (and 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old 6th seeded #10 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates),

    Ayumi and Jelena have met only once before, in 2009 on a hardcourt in Fed Cup play in Belgrade, when Jelena defeated Ayumi 6-1, 6-0.

Seoul:

#450 Ye-Ra Lee
?' ?" ?lb RH 2H-BH Guangzhou:

#80 Galina Voskoboeva
6' 0" 147lb RH 2H-BH Seoul:

#541 Su Jeong Jang
?' ?" ?lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday in China, in the final of the Guangzhou Open, won her first WTA singles final by defeating 7-6(1), 6-1 (Shuai is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Shuai's prize is $112,080; Vania's prize is $56,040.

    Shuai said: "I'm not a person who often gets excited, but today I feel really happy. This is the biggest moment of my career. I look at this like a new starting point, not a final destination." WTA story

    Shuai and Vania had met only once before, in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Tokyo, when Vania defeated Shuai 6-1, 6-0.

    Shuai was playing in her first WTA singles final (she has won three WTA doubles titles). Shuai has a 32-16 singles match record in 2013.

    Vania is now 1-1 in WTA singles finals. She has a 29-18 singles match record this year.

    Meanwhile at Seoul, Korea, in the quarterfinals of the KDB Korean Open, defeated 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "It was definitely a very good match. I was playing really good tennis. It was really hot out there but I played my 100% throughout the match, so that's why it was two quick sets." WTA story

    In the Korea Open final on Sunday, Agnieszka will play
    Agnieszka leads Anastasia 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was a few weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round of the US Open, when Agnieszka defeated Anastasia 6-4, 7-6(1).

    Agnieszka is 12-5 in previoua WTA singles finals, and has a 49-14 singles match record this season.

    Anastasia is 5-2 in previoua WTA singles finals, and has a 28-17 singles match record in 2013.

    On Friday in China, in the semifinals of the Guangzhou Open, 24 year old wild card #106 (career high: #74) Shuai Zhang from Tianjin, China, reached her first WTA singles final by defeating 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Shuai said: "I am very happy about my game. I feel I am playing better and better. I've played four players with different game styles, but I managed to play well against each of them... I'm very excited to be in the final of a WTA tournament. This is the best achievement for me as a professional tennis player." WTA story

    In the Guangzou Open final on Saturday, Shuai will play the 2006 champion at Bangkok, 24 year old qualifier #126 (career high: #50) Vania King from Long Beach, California.

    Shuai and Vania have met only once before, in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Tokyo, when Vania defeated Shuai 6-1, 6-0.

    Shuai is playing in her first WTA singles final (she has won three WTA doubles titles). Shuai has a 31-16 singles match record in 2013.

    Vania is 1-0 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 29-17 singles match record this year.

    Vania said: "I've played [Shuai] once before. I think she's in good form right now. I watched a little bit of her match today and it seems like wherever she wants to hit, it's going. It's going to be a tough match."

    Shuai said: "[Vania] is a very smart and hard-working player... I don't want to put too much pressure on myself, so I just want to play my game and do my best."

    Meanwhile at Seoul, Korea, in the quarterfinals of the KDB Korean Open, defeated 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Francesca said: "Kimiko was playing very well at the start. She deserved to win the first set. I played much better in the second set, then the third set was close. I think we had a really good fight." WTA story

    In the Korea Open semifinals on Saturday, Francesca will play the 2013 Monterrey champion, 22 year old 3rd seeded #33 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia.

    Francesca leads Anastasia 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 4th round of the US Open, when Anastasia defeated Francesca 5-7, 6-3, 6-4.

    On Thursday at Seoul, Korea, in the 2nd round of the KDB Korean Open, the 2009 Seoul champion, 42 year old #63 (and former #4, all time Japanese #1) Kimiko Date Krumm from Tokyo, Japan, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Kimiko said: "Maria is a very strong player, but I felt she had some kind of problem today. She didn't run everywhere like she usually does, so I think she had something wrong with her. She wasn't putting as much pressure on me today, so I just had to control myself and my game until the end." WTA story

    Maria confirmed that she had been slowed by an injury. Maria tweeted: "I have an injury again...I am pulling out from Tokyo tournament and hopefully will be ready for Beijing. #lifestillgood" Maria Kirilenko at Twitter

    In the Korea Open quarterfinals on Friday, Kimiko will play the 2010 French Open champ, 33 year old #54 (career high: #4) Francesca Schiavone from Milan, Italy.

    Francesca leads Kimiko 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Francesca defeated Kimiko 6-3, 6-1.

    Meanwhile in China, in the quarterfinals of the Guangzhou Open, defeated 1-6, 7-6(6), 6-2 (no photos were posted from Guangzhou today, so Jie is shown signing the wall at last year's Guangzhou player's party).

    Laura said: "I made a lot of mistakes on my return, which gave her a lot of easy points. But overall, I think she just played better than me." WTA story

    In the Guangzou Open semifinals on Friday, Jie will play 24 year old qualifier #126 (career high: #50) Vania King from Long Beach, California.

    Jie and Vania have met only once before, last year on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Tokyo, when Jie defeated Vania 6-3, 6-4.

    On Wednesday at Seoul, Korea, in the 2nd round of the KDB Korean Open, the 2010 French Open champ, 33 year old #54 (career high: #4) Francesca Schiavone from Milan, Italy, defeated 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the Korea Open quarterfinals on Friday, Francesca will play the winner of Thursday's match between the 2008 Seoul champion (and 2013 champ at Pattaya City), 26 year old 2nd seeded #20 (career high: #10) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia, and the 2009 Seoul champion, 42 year old #63 (and former #4, all time Japanese #1) Kimiko Date Krumm from Tokyo, Japan.

    Francesca leads Maria 6-1 in career matches.

    Francesca leads Kimiko 3-0 in career matches.

    Meanwhile in China, in the 2nd round of the Guangzhou Open, the 2011 Auckland champ, 30 year old #56 (career high: #15) Jie Zheng from Cheng Du, Si Chuan, China, defeated 20 year old #107 (career high: #59) Timea Babos from Sopron, Hungary, 7-5, 7-6(1) (photo shown).

    In the Guangzou Open quarterfinals on Thursday, Jie will play the 2012 Guangzhou finalist, 19 year old 3rd seeded #35 (career high: #27) Laura Robson from London, England.

    Jie and Laura have met only once before, a year ago on the same Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Guangzou, when Laura defeated Jie 6-3, 6-3.

    Laura said: "I have to play better than I did today for sure [d #170 Saisai Zheng 6-3, 7-6(4)]. [Jie is] playing well. I saw some of her match today against Babos. It's going to be a tough one." WTA story

    On Tuesday at Seoul, Korea, in the 1st round of the KDB Korean Open, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "I've never played here and every hardcourt is different. Here the center court is really slow, so in the beginning I couldn't really feel my rhythm, and in the first couple of games I was struggling a little bit. But I got used to it and it was much, much better. I had to be very patient today, because you can't finish the point in one ball here, you really have to make a couple of shots first. In the second set I was really playing my best tennis." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Agnieszka will play 26 year old #109 (career high: #95) Estrella Cabeza Candela from Barcelona, Spain.

    Agnieszka and Estrella have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Seoul, 28 year old wild card #541 (career high: #400) Su Jeong Jang of Korea defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Su Jeong will play
    Su Jeong and Ons will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Monday at Seoul, Korea, in the 1st round of the KDB Korean Open, 26 year old wild card #450 (career high: #178) Ye-Ra Lee of Korea defeated 18 year old #164 (career high: #140) Daria Gavrilova from Moscow, Russia, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Ye-Ra will play
    Ye-Ra and Anastasia have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile in China, in the 1st round of the Guangzhou Open, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Galina will play
    Galina and Monica have met only once before, earlier this year on red clay in qualifying at Oeiras (Estoril), Portugal, when Galina defeated Monica 6-3, 6-3.

mchale_2012_07_19_san_diego_2nd_doi_fh_350x200 vekic_2013_01_15_australian_open_1st_hlavackova_fh_volley_350x200 Tashkent:

#148 Nastassja Burnett
5'10" 141lb RH 2H-BH Tashkent:

#103 Maria-Teresa Torro-Flor
5' 6" 137lb RH 2H-BH Tashkent:

#78 Mandy Minella
5' 11" 143lb RH 2H-BH Tashkent:

#88 Olga Govortsova
6' 0" 148lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Quebec City, Canada, in the final of the Bell Challenge, won her first WTA singles title in 5 years by defeating 6-4, 6-3 (Lucie is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Lucie's prize is $40,000; Marina's prize is $20,000.

    Lucie said: "It was just about a few points today, but I was more consistent with my game and more aggressive, and I think that's why I won. My strategy was to try to go to [Marina's] backhand side and just try to use my lefty shots as well as I could. I was a little bit nervous at the end because it was so long since my last WTA title. I really wanted to win the title today—so it's great I was able to do that." WTA story

    Marina said: "Lucie made it very difficult for me today. She played solid and didn't let up her lead at all. And I was struggling to find my rhythm with her lefty serve and in the rallies. So I just have to take my hat off to her and move on now."

    Lucie and Marina had met only once before, in 2009 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round of the Australian Open, when Lucie defeated Marina 6-1, 3-6, 9-7.

    Lucie is now 5-7 in WTA singles finals. She had not won a title since 2008, but she did reach the Charleston final last year, where she lost to Serena Williams. Lucie has a 25-21 singles match record in 2013.

    Marina is now 1-3 in WTA singles finals, and has a 27-20 singles match record this year.

    On Saturday in Uzbekistan, in final of the Tashkent Open, narrowly defeated 25 year old #88 (career high: #35) Olga Govortsova from Minsk, Belarus, 4-6, 7-5, 7-6(3) (Bojana is shown after match point).

    Bojana's prize is $40,000; Olga's prize is $20,000.

    Bojana said: "Anybody could have won this match today. It was a close match and all credit to Olga for an incredible battle. I'm so happy!" WTA story

    Olga said: "Bojana played very well today. She was moving well and hitting the ball really hard out there. Congratulations to her for a good win."

    Bojana and Olga had never before met on the field of combat.

    Bojana is now 2-0 in WTA singles finals, and has a 21-19 singles match record this season.

    Olga is now 0-4 in WTA singles finals, and has a 13-19 singles match record for the year.

    On Friday in Uzbekistan, in semifinals of the Tashkent Open, the 2012 champ at Baku, 21 year old qualifier and top seed #58 (career high: #38) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Bojana is shown during her 2nd round win on Wednesday).

    Bojana said: "It's the first time I played Torro-Flor, who has been having a good run this week. It was a difficult start, but after two games I started playing well and felt great with my rhythm and strokes." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Tashkent, 25 year old #88 (career high: #35) Olga Govortsova from Minsk, Belarus, defeated her doubles partner this week (they have reached the doubles final), 27 year old #110 (career high: #66) Mandy Minella from Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg, 6-2, 7-5 (Olga is shown during her quarterfinal win on Thursday).

    Olga said: "It was a pretty easy first set. In the second set Mandy started playing aggressive, and also serving well. I called my coach at the change break, who advised me to attack her serve, and the strategy paid off and I broke her immediately." tourney story

    Bojana will play Olga in the Tashkent Open final on Saturday.

    Bojana and Olga have never before met on the field of combat.

    Bojana is 1-0 in previous WTA singles finals, and has an 20-19 singles match record this season.

    Olga is 0-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has an 13-18 singles match record this season.

    On Thursday in Uzbekistan, in quarterfinals of the Tashkent Open, 27 year old #110 (career high: #66) Mandy Minella from Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg, defeated 21 year old #148 (career high: #131) Nastassja Burnett from Rome, Italy, 7-6(4), 7-5 (photo shown).

    Nastassja failed to convert 3 set points when leading 5-3 in the 1st set. Mandy said: "The match was fast paced and attacking, and also lot of incredible shots were hit by both of us. I was never leading in the match, but played very well after being down 0-4. Also a easy miss by Burnett on her forehand at 5-3 changed the momentum a bit." tourney story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Mandy will play her doubles partner this week (they have reached the doubles final), 25 year old #88 (career high: #35) Olga Govortsova from Minsk, Belarus.

    Olga leads Mandy 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 1st round at Indian Wells, when Olga defeated Mandy 6-2, 3-6, 6-4.

    Also on Thursday at Tashkent, 21 year old #103 (career high: #64) Maria-Teresa Torro-Flor from Villena, Spain, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Maria-Teresa said: "I was expecting a tough match and prepared well. I'm happy to be in my first ever WTA semifinal. I started well, played confidently and focused on my match. I'm playing better on hard and concentrating on playing aggressive tennis. I'm not thinking of points but I'm thinking of improving my game." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Maria-Teresa will play 21 year old qualifier and top seed #58 (career high: #38) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia.

    Bojana leads Maria-Teresa 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Bojana defeated Maria-Teresa 2-6, 6-4, 6-3.

    On Wednesday in Uzbekistan, in 2nd round of the Tashkent Open, defeated 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Bojana had to go through qualifying because she entered the tourney after the main draw entry list was closed. The main draw was held on Sunday after qualifying was completed, so Bojana earned the unusual distinction of being both a qualifier, and the top seed in the MD.

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Bojana will play
    Bojana and Galina have met only once before, in 2012 on Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at Beijing, when Bojana defeated Galina 3-6, 6-4, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Tashkent, 21 year old #148 (career high: #131) Nastassja Burnett from Rome, Italy, reached her first WTA quarterfinal by defeating 19 year old qualifier #199 (career high: #198) Risa Ozaki of Japan, 6-4, 3-6, 7-6(4) (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Nastassja will play 27 year old #110 (career high: #66) Mandy Minella from Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.

    Nastassja and Mandy have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday in Uzbekistan, in 1st round of the Tashkent Open, defeated #253 Nigina Abdurimova of Uzbekistan 6-2, 7-6-(2) (photo shown).

    Petra has missed much of this season due to injuries. Petra said: "I'm happy to have gotten through the first round. Compliments to Nigina. She is a talented player and I didn't know what to expect from her. I am pleased with the way I played...
    "I went through a tough time being out for nine months due to a lot of injuries on my knees and foot. It takes time to come back, but now I feel better and stronger with each passing day. My aim is to prevent any more injuries, keep fit and get back to the top 100 by the end of the year." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Petra will play
    Petra and Yvonne have met only once before, in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round of an ITF tourney at Nottingham, England, when Petra defeated Yvonne 6-4, 6-1.

    Also on Tuesday at Tashkent, 28 year old 7th seeded #77 (career high: #46) Galina Voskoboeva from Astana, Kazakhstan, defeated #113 Maryna Zanevska of the Ukraine 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Galina will play 23 year old #128 (career high: #99) Julia Glushko from Modiin, Israel.

    Galina and Julia have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday in Quebec City, in the 1st round of the Bell Challenge defeated 6-2, 6-1 (Christina is shown while defeating Julia Goerges in the 1st round of this year's US Open).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Christina will play
    Christina and Caroline have met only once before, in 2011 on red clay in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Pelham, Alabama, when Caroline defeated Christina 7-6(5), 7-6(4).

    Meanwhile in Uzbekistan, in 1st round of the Tashkent Open, defeated qualifier #215 Lyudmyla Kichenok of the Ukraine 6-3, 6-2 (Donna is shown while defeating Sorana Cirstea in the quarterfinals at Birmingham this year).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Donna will play
    Donna and Olga have never before met on the field of combat.

Flushing Meadows:

#298 Victoria Duval
5'9" 154lb RH 2H-BH Flushing Meadows:

#32 Laura Robson
5'11" 148lb LH 2H-BH     On Sunday in New York, in the final of the 2013 US Open, won again, defeating 7-5, 6(6)-7, 6-1 (Victoria is shown during the match; Serena is shown hugging the hardware afterward).

    Serena's prize is $3,600,000 (including a $1 million bonus for winning the US Open Series); Victoria's prize is $1,550,000 (including a $250K bonus for 2nd place in the USO.)

    Serena struck 36 winners (including 9 aces) with 35 unforced errors (including 5 double faults) while scoring on 7 of the 12 break points she reached against Victoria and totaling 109 points. Vika hit 17 winners (2 aces) with 27 errors (7 DFs) and converted 4 of her 8 break points against Serena while totaling 91 points. match stats

    Victoria trailed 1-4 in the 2nd set before breaking back twice, each time as Serena was serving for the match, to force the tiebreaker. The 3rd set, however, was almost all Serena.

    Serena said: "I definitely felt the love today, so thank you all for the support... Vika's such a great opponent and such a great fighter... that's why the match definitely wasn't over until match point today." WTA story

    Victoria said: "It's a tough loss, but to be in the final again and play against the best was great. We fought hard and gave all our hearts out there, and I just have to say congratulations to Serena."

    Serena leads Victoria 13-3 in career matches. Their previous meeting was two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at Cincinnati, when Vika defeated Serena 2-6, 6-2, 7-6(6).

    Serena, now 17-4 in Grand Slam singles finals, is 55-17 in WTA singles finals; she has won 9 this year. Serena has a 67-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Victoria Azarenka (twice), Sabine Lisicki, and Sloane Stephens.

    Victoria, now 2-2 in Grand Slam singles finals, is 17-14 in WTA singles finals, and has a 42-5 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Serena Williams (twice), Samantha Stosur, Maria Sharapova, and Ekaterina Makarova.

    On Friday in New York, in the semifinals of the 2013 US Open, the 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 US Open champ, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-0, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 19 winners (including 4 aces) with 20 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 5 of the 11 break points she reached against Na and totaling 69 points. Na hit 8 winners (no aces) with 24 errors (4 DFs) and converted 1 of her 4 break points against Serena while totaling 49 points. match stats

    After being bageled in the 1st set, Na broke Serena to take a 2-1 lead in the 2nd. Serena said: "Li Na's such a great player. It was tough at the end of the match, and I got a little bit nervous there, but I was able to close it out finally." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Flushing Meadows, last year's US Open finalist (and the 2013 Australian Open, Doha and Cincinnati champion), 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Victoria struck 15 winners (including no aces) with 25 unforced errors (including 6 double faults) while scoring on 8 of the 13 break points she reached against Flavia and totaling 69 points. Flavia hit 19 winners (1 ace) with 23 errors (3 DFs) and converted 5 of her 6 break points against Victoria while totaling 54 points. match stats

    Victoria said: "Today was a great match, a lot of emotions. I think the turning point was when I finally held my serve and won the first set. I stayed tough and played really well on return games and on important moments. Flavia's such a great fighter, getting to every ball, so I really had to keep my focus in the match." WTA story

    Serena will play Victoria in the US Open final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Victoria 12-3 in career matches, but Victoria has won two of the three times they have played this year. Their most recent meeting was two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at Cincinnati, when Vika defeated Serena 2-6, 6-2, 7-6(6).

    Serena, 16-4 in Grand Slam singles finals, is 54-17 in previous WTA singles finals; she has won 8 this year. Serena has a 66-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Victoria Azarenka (twice), Sabine Lisicki, and Sloane Stephens.

    Victoria, 2-1 in Grand Slam singles finals, is 17-13 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 42-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Serena Williams, Samantha Stosur, Maria Sharapova, and Ekaterina Makarova.
    On Wednesday in New York, in the quarterfinals of the 2013 US Open, last year's US Open finalist (and the 2013 Australian Open, Doha and Cincinnati champion), 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Victoria struck 17 winners (including 1 ace) with 15 unforced errors (including 4 double faults) while scoring on 7 of the 11 break points she reached against Daniela and totaling 62 points. Daniela hit 19 winners (3 aces) with 18 errors (3 DFs) and converted 3 of her 4 break points against Victoria while totaling 45 points. match stats

    Victoria said: "It was a little bit tricky with the wind, and Daniela is the kind of player who doesn't give you rhythm, so you have to try to make it happen in one or two shots in the beginning. There weren't many long rallies, which can make it difficult to get into the match, but I felt like I was really good in the important moments." WTA story

    Daniela said: "I didn't feel like I played my best tennis today... Throughout the whole tournament my serve was working great, just not tonight. I'm very disappointed... [Victoria has] always been very solid and she doesn't give you anything for free. She makes very few mistakes and moves extremely well too. I knew what to expect. like I said, it was just from my side. I didn't bring the best out of me."

    Also on Wednesday at Flushing Meadows, the 2010 champion at Marbella, 31 year old #86 (rank down due to injury, career high: #10) Flavia Pennetta of Italy (residence: Verbier, Switzerland), defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Flavia struck 23 winners (including 3 aces) with 17 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 12 break points she reached against Roberta and totaling 63 points. Roberta hit 14 winners (no aces) with 28 errors (3 DFs) while converting 2 of her 5 break points against Flavia and totaling 45 points. match stats

    It was Flavia's fourth appearance in the US Open quarterfinals, but the first time she has advanced to the semis. She missed much of last season, including Flushing Meadows, due to a right wrist injury which required surgery.

    Flavia said: "At the end of the first set I knew I had to start being more aggressive, and my serve was working really well today, so that helped me a lot... I just played my tennis and everything worked out really well for me." WTA story

    Flavia will play Victoria in the US Open semifinals on Friday.

    Victoria and Flavia are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Dubai, when Flavia defeated Victoria 6-3, 6(7)-7, 6-4.

    In Friday's other semifinal, the 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 US Open champ, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, will play
    Serena leads Na 8-1 in career matches, and has won their last 7 encounters. Their most recent meeting was two weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Cincinnati, when Serena defeated Na 7-5, 7-5.

    Serena said: "I think the challenge of playing someone like [Na] is how do you beat a player that does everything so well? I'm going to have to think about that and come up with an answer to that in the next couple days... We've always played really close. Maybe next time we play she might want to go from close to a win. I have to be ready for that."

    On Monday in New York, in the 4th round of the 2013 US Open, defeated 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Daniela struck 46 winners (including 15 aces) with only 22 unforced errors (including 2 double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 7 break points she reached against Alison and totaling 90 points. Alison hit 3 17 winners (3 aces) with 20 errors (1 DF) and converted both of her 2 break points against Daniela while totaling 72 points. match stats

    The win put Daniela into her first Grand Slam quarterfinal since 2003. She also reached the US Open quarters in 2002.

    Daniela said: "Alison played extremely well at the end of the second set... Obviously the serve was working really well today. I think that was the main difference in the match today." WTA story

    Alison said: "[Daniela is] a seasoned player. She played ball today. So I did all I could for this moment and that's all I could do. She just played too well... Even though I did lose today. It was a really great tournament for me."

    Rain interrupted play for four hours on Monday. As a result, only three of the four scheduled women's singles matches were completed.

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Daniela will play the winner of Tuesday's postponed match between and

    Ana leads Daniela 5-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 3rd round at Miami, when Ana defeated Daniela 6-2, 7-6(2).

    Also on Monday at Flushing Meadows, defeated 6-2, 7-6(3) (photo shown).

    It is the fourth time that Flavia has reached the US Open quarterfinals since 2008. She has never advanced to the semis.

    Flavia said: "Playing in New York is always good for me... I can tell you that on the first day this year, when I played my first match, I didn't expect to be here. I didn't expect to play so well against Sara in my second match, either. But I've just tried to play my best all the time and be aggressive, do something with the ball and not think about winning or losing. Just try to play tennis." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Flavia will play
    In the US Open quarterfinals on Tuesday, the 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 US Open champ, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, will play
    Serena leads Carla 2-0 in career matches, Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Rome, when Serena defeated Carla 6-2, 6-0.

    In Tuesday's other quarterfinal, the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, will play
    Na leads Ekaterina 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Sydney, when Na defeated Kate 6-0, 6-3.

    On Sunday in New York, in the 4th round of the 2013 US Open, the 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 US Open champ, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "It was definitely a high quality match out there. We both came out today to play. At the end of the day it was a fourth round match, but it definitely had feelings of a quarterfinal or a semifinal match." WTA story

    Sloane said: "There were times I played some really good tennis, though the second set got away from me a little bit. But overall I thought I played well... It didn't go how I wanted, but I competed well and played well, and that's all you can do."

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Serena will play the 2013 finalist at Oeiras & Acapulco (and a quarterfinalist at Roland Garros in 2008 and at Melbourne in 2009), 24 year old 18th seeded #20 (career-high: #19) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Serena leads Carla 2-0 in career matches, Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Rome, when Serena defeated Carla 6-2, 6-0.

    Also on Sunday at Flushing Meadows, the 2010 Eastbourne champ, 25 year old 24th seeded #26 (career high: #19) Ekaterina Makarova from Moscow, Russia, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Ekaterina will play the 2013 champion at Shenzhen (and 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 5th seeded #6 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Na leads Ekaterina 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Sydney, when Na defeated Kate 6-0, 6-3.

the 2012 Cincinnati champion (and the 2013 champion at Shenzhen & 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 4th seeded #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.
    On Saturday in New York, in the 3rd round of the 2013 US Open, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (Alison is shown after match point).

    Alison said: "I've got a new confidence in myself... I feel like I'm playing within myself and not doing anything too crazy. It's just really comfortable for me out there." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Alison will play
    Daniela leads Alison 2-0 in career matches, Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the semifinals at Birmingham, when Daniela defeated Alison 5-7, 6-1, 6-4.

    Also on Saturday at Flushing Meadows, defeated 6(2)-7, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "[Alize] played really well. I felt like I didn't take my opportunities in the first set, which was kind of a waste, and it gave her a lot of confidence. She really came up with great shots when she needed them, and she was hitting some big serves too. I've actually never seen her serve like that.
    "I'm glad I could turn things around in the second and third set. That was when I was really finding my rhythm. And I felt much better in the end after the two hour mark, which I'm very happy about." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Vika will play
    Vika leads Ana 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was four weeks ago on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Carlsbad (San Diego), when Victoria defeated Ana 6-0, 4-6, 6-3.

    On Friday in New York, in the 3rd round of the 2013 US Open, defeated, 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Na had lost to Laura in the 3rd round of last year's US Open. Na said: "I was really pleased with how I was hitting it, and I was also serving well." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Na will play
    Na and Jelena are tied at 4-4 in career matches, but Jelena has won their last three encounters. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 3rd round at Rome, when Jelena defeated Na 7-6(2), 7-5.

    Also on Friday at Flushing Meadows, defeated her compatriot, 23 year old 23rd seeded #25 (career high: #25) Jamie Hampton from Auburn, Alabama, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Sloane said: "Once I got my first round match out of the day, I was feeling a lot better. I played well in my second match, and played well today as well, so it was good. I'm feeling really good now." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Sloane will play
    Sloane and Serena are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, when Sloane defeated Serena 3-6, 7-5, 6-4.

    On Thursday in New York, in the 2nd round of the 2013 US Open, defeated her compatriot, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Flavia served 7 aces, with no double faults, and won 68% of her 1st serve points (Sara: 0 aces, 1 DF, 38%). match stats

    Flavia said: "I was really aggressive from the beginning, but I think the key was my serve. I was serving really well today and that was the biggest difference." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Flavia will play
    Svetlana leads Flavia 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Dubai, when Svetlana defeated Flavia 6-4, 6-4.

    Also on Thursday at Flushing Meadows, the 2012, 2008, 2002 & 1999 tourney champ, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I'll have to think about it and see what I can do better, but it was OK." AP story

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Yaroslava 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a chlorophyll court in the 4th round at Wimbledon, when Serena defeated Slava 6-1, 2-6, 7-5.

    On Wednesday in New York, in the 2nd round of the 2013 US Open, defeated 6-3, 2-6, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    Jie took a 3-0 lead in the 3rd set, then 4-1, before Venus broke back. In the tiebreaker, Venus trailed 1-4 before recovering to 5-5, then Jie scored the final two points of the match.

    Facing a partisan crown in her on court interview, Jie said: "First I want to say, 'Sorry guys. She's a great player, but I want to win also." AP story

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Jie will play
    Jie leads Carla 2-0 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round at Eastbourne, Jie defeated Carla 6-2, 6-2.

    Also on Wednesday at Flushing Meadows, defeated 6-4, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    Laura, who is returning from a wrist injury, called for the trainer after the 1st set. Laura said: "I just felt like I needed some more tape on my wrist, that's all we did. It's fine. I'm going to get treatment on it and get it ready for Friday." BBC story

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Laura will play
    Laura and Na have met only once before, one year ago on the same Deco-Turf hardcourts at Flushing Meadows, when Laura defeated Na 6-4, 6(7)-7, 6-2.

    Na said: "Since last year, I think both of us have improved a lot. I'm really looking forward to possibly playing against her again. For sure it'll be challenging because she's a lefty and an aggressive player." WTA story

    Rain in New York on Wednesday slowed play considerably. Only 8 women's singles matches, of 16 scheduled, were completed, with the remaining 8 postponed to Thursday.

    On Tuesday in New York, in the 1st round of the 2013 US Open, playing in the 2nd Grand Slam match of her career, defeated 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    It was the first time Victoria had ever faced a top 20 player. Victoria scored on 6 of the 13 break points she reached against Samantha and totaled 118 points; Sam converted 5 of her 16 break points against Victoria and totaled 111 points. match stats

    Victoria said: "Sam is a great champion... She didn't play her best today, and this is the best I've played in my career. I'm really excited."

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Vicky will play
    Victoria and Daniela have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Flushing Meadows, crushed, killed, destroyed and double-bageled 6-0, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Vika will play
    Victoria leads Aleksandra 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 3rd round at Roland Garros, when Vika defeated Aleksandra 6-4, 6-4.


    On Monday in New York, in the 1st round of the 2013 US Open, defeated 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I knew playing a former Grand Slam champion in the first round was a really, really tough draw. so I tried to be super serious." AP story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Serena will play
    Serena and Galina have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 1st round at Rome, when Serena defeated Galina 6-2, 6-3.

    Also on Monday at Flushing Meadows, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (Venus is shown after match point).

    Kirsten had defeated Venus 0-6, 6-4, 6-2 earlier this month in Toronto.

    Venus said: "In Toronto I started out really strong and it didn't end up as well as I would have liked. But my serve was a lot better today. In Toronto I wasn't really feeling that great about my serve. Honestly, I think that made a huge difference." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Venus will play
    Venus and Jie have also met only once before, in 2004 on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Venus defeated Jie 6-4, 6-4.

    On Friday at Yale University, in the semifinals of the New Haven Open, demolished her compatriot, 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "I think the beginning of the match was pretty close. Klara had chances to win the first game and the next game when she was serving. I think that was the turning point. I was saying to myself, 'I need to stay focused in the first set and play really well because I know she can come back anytime and I need to be ready for it.'" WTA story

    In the night match on Friday at New Haven, will play (Caroline is shown after her 2nd round win on Wednesday).

    Petra will play Caroline or Simona in the New Haven Open final on Saturday.

    Petra and Caroline are tied at 4-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last week on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Cincinnati, when Caro defeated Petra 3-6, 6-2, 6-3.

    Petra and Simona have never before met on the field of combat.

    Petra is 10-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 39-18 singles match record this season.

    Caroline is 20-13 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 28-18 singles match record for the year.

    Simona is 3-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 38-14 singles match record for the year, winning 30 of her last 35 matches.

    On Thursday at Yale University, in the quarterfinals of the New Haven Open, the 2012 tourney champ (and the 2013 champion at Dubai), 23 year old 3rd seeded #9 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 2-6, 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "It's important to have matches like these where you have to fight until the end where you're not necessarily playing your best. That's part of tennis. Of course, I prefer shorter, two set matches, but I won the last point and that's the important thing." WTA story

    In the New Haven Open semifinals on Friday, Petra will play her compatriot, the 2013 finalist at Shenzhen (and 2005 champ at Portoroz & 's-Hertogenbosch), 31 year old #34 (career high: #21) Klara (Koukalova) Zakopalova from Prague, Czech Republic.

    Klara leads Petra 2-1 in career matches. But Klara's 2 wins both came in 2007, and Petra won their most recent meeting, this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 4th round at Indian Wells, 6-2, 6-3.

    Klara said: "[Petra and I] are good friends. She won easily when we last played in Indian Wells... She's serving very well, so I have to be ready for that. She's also playing very flat and very fast, so I will have to move very well and fight for every point."

    Also on Thursday at New Haven, the 2013 champion at Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh and Nuremberg, 21 year old #25 (career high: #23) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-1, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    Simona said: "I played really well in the first set and [Ekaterina] wasn't playing so well. She made a lot of mistakes first set. But at 1-all in the second set it rained and the match was suspended. I was a little bit nervous after that and it took me a little bit of time to get back into the match afterwards. But I managed to come back from 4-2 down in the second set and did well from there, so I'm happy." WTA story

    In the New Haven Open semifinals on Friday, Simona will play the 4-time New Haven champion (and 2012 champ at Seoul), 23 year old 4th seeded #10 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Simona and Caro have met only once before, last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Dubai, when Caroline defeated Simona 6-2, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at Yale University, in the 2nd round of the New Haven Open, defeated 6-1, 7-5 (Caro is shown after match point).

    Caro called for the trainer during the 2nd set. Caroline said: "I'm feeling better now. I've had a bit of a cold the whole week and I'm just trying to keep myself healthy. I started to feel a little dizzy out there and just wanted to make sure everything was OK." tourney story

    In the New Haven Open quarterfinals on Thursday, Caroline will play the winner of Wednesday's late match between a 2013 Australian Open quarterfinalist, 20 year old 6th seeded #17 (career high: #15) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida, and
    Also on Wednesday at New Haven, the 2010 Eastbourne champ, 25 year old #24 (career high: #19) Ekaterina Makarova from Moscow, Russia, defeated 7-5, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Ekaterina struck 8 aces in the match, with 2 double faults (Sara: 0 aces, 5 DFs).

    Sara said: "[Ekaterina] was hitting the ball well and serving many aces. I knew she would be tough coming in, but there was not much I could do."

    Ekaterina said: "In the second set, I felt like I played really good. I'm really happy that this happened today at a big stadium and a good tournament. There's only one way to beat [Sara], and all my shots were working really good."

    In the New Haven Open quarterfinals on Thursday, Ekaterina will play the 2013 champion at Budapest, 's-Hertogenbosh and Nuremberg, 21 year old #25 (career high: #23) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Ekaterina and Simona have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday at Yale University, in the 2nd round of the New Haven Open, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Elena scored on 6 of the 10 break points she reached against Angelique while totaling 69 points in the match; Angelique also held 10 break points against Elena, but converted only 3 of them, while totaling 53 points.

    Also on Tuesday at New Haven, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Klara won despite putting only 30% of her 1st serves in the box (Monica: 39%). She did win 77% of her 1st serve points when she got it in (Monica: 59%). Klara converted 5 of her 8 break points against Monica; Monica scored on 2 of her 3 break points against Klara.

    Klara will play Elena in the New Haven Open quarterfinals on Thursday.

    Elena and Klara have met only once before, in 2010 on an indoor hardcourt in the 1st round at Linz, Austria, when Klara defeated Elena 7-5, 7-5.

    On Monday at Yale University, in the 1st round of the New Haven Open, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Sloane will play
    Sloane and Julia have met only once before, in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at San Diego (Carlsbad), when Sloane defeated Julia 6-3, 7-5.

    Also on Monday at New Haven, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Simona will play
    Carla leads Simona 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a chlorophyll court in the semifinals at 's-Hertgenbosch, when Simona, on her way to the title, defeated Carla 6-3, 6-2.

    On Saturday at Cincinnati, in the semifinals of the Western & Southern Open, the 2013 champ at Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 7-5, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Na led 5-4 in both sets. Oncourt after the match Serena said: "I'm really excited to be in the final... Whenever I'm down I just get really relaxed. I was just thinking, 'You know Serena, just try to do your best, and just try to do what you can." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Cincinnati, defeated (photo shown).

    Serena will play Victoria in the Western & Southern Open final on Sunday.
    Serena leads Victoria 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in May of this year on red clay in the final at Rome, when Serena defeated Victoria 6-1, 6-3. Victoria won their only other meeting this year, on a hardcourt in the final at Doha, 7-6(6), 2-6, 6-3.

    Serena is 54-16 in previous WTA singles finals; she has won 8 this year; if she wins at Cincinnati, 9 will be her new personal best for titles in one season. Serena has a 60-3 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Sabine Lisicki, Victoria Azarenka, and Sloane Stephens.

    Victoria is 16-13 in previous WTA singles finals. Vika has a 35-4 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Samantha Stosur, Maria Sharapova, Serena Williams, and Ekaterina Makarova.

    On Friday at Cincinnati, in the quarterfinals of the Western & Southern Open, the 2013 champ at Toronto, Bastad, Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami & Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-0, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I definitely haven't felt that good all week, so I'm surprised I'm still in the tournament to be honest. The first set I thought I played really well. I was actually surprised I made some of those shots, because I really don't remember looking at the ball. I could have sworn I was catching it late, and I was like, 'How did that go in?' But overall that was just a really good set for me...
    "At the end it's not really about how you play, it's about being able to win, whether you're playing well or not. So far I've been able to be in the semifinals. It's a good result. I obviously want to do better this week, and I'll just have to see how it goes. I'm still alive, and that's what matters." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Na 7-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Miami, when Serena defeated Na 6-3, 7-6(5).

    Also on Friday at Cincinnati, the 2009 Cincinnati champion (and the 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old 14th seeded #14 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated by the same score, 6-0, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Jelena will play the 2013 Australian Open and Doha champion, 24 year old 2nd seeded #2 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Vika leads JJ 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round at Sydney, when Victoria defeated Jelena 6-4, 6-2.

    On Thursday at Cincinnati, in the 3rd round of the Western & Southern Open, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "Today I had a little bit of trouble serving sometimes, but overall I felt better than I did in my first match. I was doing everything I wanted to do. I feel there's still a lot more improvements I can make with the execution and a little bit more consistency, but it's coming along. It's getting there." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Victoria will play either or
    Also on Thursday at Cincinnati, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (Na is shown while defeating Lauren Davis in the 2nd round on Wednesday).

    Na said: "I felt okay today. Yesterday I played a three set match, and afterwards the physio was asking me how I was feeling, and I was saying, 'No problem at all. I can play another three sets, no problem.' Two sets today was pretty short compared to that, so I'm feeling good about everything right now." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Na was to play
    However, Agnieszka withdrew from the tournament to fly home for her grandfather's funeral on Saturday. Na thus advances to the semifinals by walkover.

    Agnieszka said: "I'm very sorry that I have to withdraw from the tournament. Unfortunately, my granddad passed away last Sunday. The funeral is going to be Saturday, and I need to be there. I am disappointed to not continue with the tournament, especially because of my form so far this week. It was a difficult decision, but I need to go home and be with my family."

    On Wednesday at Cincinnati, in the 2nd round of the Western & Southern Open, defeated 4-6, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena, who has never progressed beyond the semifinals in Cincinnati, struck 37 unforced errors, 22 of them off her forehand.

    Serena said: "It was just really different conditions than [last week in] Toronto. And I always forget that it's so different here. So it took me a while to get used to it... I even had the easiest approach shot and it went not slightly wide, it was like 50 feet out. That was actually embarrassing. So I thought I'd never hit a shot like that professionally. I have maybe in practice with my eyes closed, but never conscious have I hit a shot like that. So it was just some crazy tennis out there." AP story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play
    Serena and Mona have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Wednesday at Cincinnati, defeated 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 (Elena is shown while defeating Kirsten Flipkens in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Elena will play either or
    On Tuesday at Cincinnati, in the 2nd round of the Western & Southern Open, defeated 6-1, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    Vania took a 3-0 lead in the 2nd set, and held 2 break points that would have made it 4-0. Vania also held a set point while leading 6-5 in the tiebreaker.

    Victoria said: "I think the beginning of the second set wasn't very good for me. There were quite a few unforced errors and just really fast mistakes that didn't happen in the first set. It went kind of quickly, but I was glad that I could turn it around there and come back even stronger.
    "Then there was competitiveness. [Vania] was already in the game and playing at a much higher level than before, and going for her shots. So I had to stay with her and just take my opportunities, and I did." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Vika will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday at Cincinnati, in a 1st round match, the 2013 champion at Eastbourne and Hobart, 26 year old #22 (career high: #21) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, defeated 3-6, 6-1, 6-3 (Elena is shown while defeating Jamie Hampton in this year's Eastbourne final).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Elena will play the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 33 year old #38 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Elena and Venus have met only once before, in 2012 on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round at Wimbledon, when Elena defeated Venus 6-1, 6-3.

    On Monday at Cincinnati, in the 1st round of the Western & Southern Open, defeated 6(6)-7, 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Angelique said: "The first set was a little bit tough for me because I couldn't find my rhythm and [Karin] was playing well in the important moments. But after the first set I was just trying to change my game a little bit and play a bit more aggressive, not moving too much around and far from the line.
    "Of course when I came here I had a lot of good memories from last year. I feel a little bit of the pressure, of course, but I'm just trying to enjoy every moment because I love this tournament." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Angelique will play
    Angelique and Alisa have met only once before, in 2008 on a hardcourt in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at Krakow, Poland, when Angelique defeated Alisa 6-3, 4-6, 7-5.

    Also on Monday at Cincinnati, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Sloane will play
    Maria leads Sloan 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 4th round at Roland Garros, when Maria defeated Sloane 6-4, 6-3.

    Angelique leads Sofia 2-1 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a hardcourt in the 2nd round of an ITF tourney at Joue les Tours, France, Sofia defeated Angelique 7-6(4), 6-3.
Toronto:

#8 Marion Bartoli
5'6¾" 139lb RH 2H-FH&BH     On Saturday at Toronto, in the semifinals of the Rogers Cup, defeated 6-1, 7-6(5) (photo shown)

    After Sorana failed to convert two match points while leading 6-5 in the 2nd, Na broke her to force the tiebreaker. Na had a 4-1 lead in the tiebreak, but Sori then won 6 of the next 7 points to take the match.

    Sorana said: "I was very focused from the start, and even when [Na] started to push me in the second set, I was still playing quite well, except those two match points at 6-5, of course, when I think I got a little bit tight. I'm happy with how I fought in the end and I'm really happy to finish the match in two sets." WTA story

    Na said: "I thought I could win the second set, but when I was up 5-2 in the set and 4-1 in the tie-break, I just didn't catch my chance. [Sorana] played a little bit differently today than she usually plays. Before she was always shoot, shoot—but today she was playing topspin sometimes."

    Also on Saturday at Toronto, defeated 7-6(3), 6-4 (Serena is shown during her 3rd round win on Thursday)

    Serena will play Sorana in the Rogers Cup final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Sorana 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the 3rd round at Roland Garros, when Serena defeated Sorana 6-0, 6-2.

    Serena is 53-16 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 55-3 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Sabine Lisicki, Victoria Azarenka, and Sloane Stephens.

    Sorana is 1-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 29-19 singles match record this season.

    Agnieszka leads Sorana 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 3rd round at Indian Wells, when Aga defeated Sori 6(7)-7, 6-3, 6-4.

    Agnieszka is 12-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 41-12 singles match record in 2013.

    On Friday at Toronto, in the quarterfinals of the Rogers Cup, the 2013 champion at Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 3rd seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 7-6(1), 7-5 (photo shown)

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Agnieszka will play the 2013 champ at Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, Brisbane & Bastad, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL.

    Serena leads Agnieszka 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the semifinals at Miami, when Serena defeated Aga 6-0, 6-3.

    Also on Friday at Toronto, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 23 year old #28 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, defeated 4-6, 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown)

    Sorana said: "There were a few moments that were up and down but I'm happy with the way I played. I fought hard for the win and managed quite well in the most important moments today." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Sorana will play this year's champion at Shenzhen (and the 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 4th seeded #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Na leads Sorana 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Na defeated Sorana 6-4, 6-1.

    On Thursday at Toronto, in the 3rd round of the Rogers Cup, defeated 6-0, 6-3 (photo shown)

    Kirsten had also lost the 1st set 0-6 nefore recovering to defeat Serena's sister Venus in the 1st round on Tuesday.

    Serena said: "After I won the first set I definitely thought about Venus, and I thought about what a good comeback Kirsten had, so I thought, 'I'm not going to get overconfident.' [Kirsten is] obviously a really good player, so I was just trying to stay really focused as well as really intense at that moment." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play
    Serena and Magda have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Thursday at Toronto, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 23 year old #28 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown)

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Sorana will play the winner of Thursday's night match between the 2013 champion at Dubai, 23 year old 6th seeded #7 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, and
    On Wednesday at Toronto, in the 2nd round of the Rogers Cup, the 2013 Wimbledon champion, 28 year old 7th seeded #8 (career high: #7) Marion Bartoli of France (residence: Geneva, SUI), defeated 6-0, 6-3 (photo shown)

    Marion said: "I was surprised I started so well, honestly. I hadn't played on hardcourt for a while, and also the last two times I played in Toronto I lost first round. So I just wanted to enjoy myself on the court and try my hardest, and being able to win 60 63 was obviously pretty good for me. I think I played well, and I'm very pleased with the way I handled everything on the court today." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Marion will play
    Marion leads Magdalena 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the 1st round at Barcelona, when Magdalena defeated Marion 6-4, 6-1.

    Also on Wednesday at Toronto, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown)

    Na said: "Of course the first match is always tough, especially here because I didn't play any tournaments for three or four weeks after Wimbledon, but I was feeling pretty good. I was still a little bit nervous out there, which is natural, but I was fighting a lot on the court and I'm happy to win today."

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Na will play either or
    On Tuesday at Toronto, in the 2nd round of the Rogers Cup, defeated 6(0)-7, 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown)

    Domi said: "Angelique was putting everything back. Her defensive game is really good, and I just had to be patient and aggressive at the same time today. You have to go for it. When you make some mistakes you get a little nervous - in a match it's a little bit different than in practice. But you just have to keep going for it, and in the end I made it today, so I was really happy." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Dominika will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday at Toronto, in a 1st round match, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown)

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play
    Ana leads Flavia 2-0 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 4th round at Indian Wells, Ana defeated Flavia 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

    On Monday at Toronto, in the 1st round of the Rogers Cup, defeated 22 year old #39 (career high: #29) Urszula Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, 6-3, 3-6, 6-2 (photo shown)

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Flavia will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday at Toronto, defeated 6(3)-7, 6-3, 7-6(1) (photo shown)

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Mona will play the winner of Monday's late match between
Carlsbad:

#134 Sesil Karatantcheva
5' 7½" 140lb RH 2H-BH Carlsbad:


#42 Urszula Radwanska
5' 10" 128lb RH 2H-BH Carlsbad:

#129 Virginie Razzano
5'9" 148lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at La Costa Resort, Carlsbad, California (north of San Diego), in the semifinals of the Southern California Open, defeated 6-0, 4-6, 6-3 (Vika is shown during her quarterfinal victory).

    In the Southern California Open final on Sunday, Victoria will play either or
    Victoria leads Samantha 8-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Rome, when Vika defeated Sam 6-4, 1-6, 6-3.

    Victoria leads Virginie 2-0 in career matches. They have not met since 2008, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Montreal, Vika defeated Virginie 7-6(4), 2-0 retired. Virginie could not continue that day due to a thigh injury.

    Victoria is 16-12 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 31-3 singles match record this year, losing only to Ekaterina Makarova, Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams.

    Samantha is 3-12 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 23-15 singles match record this season.

    Virginie is 2-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 23-14 singles match record in 2013.

    Meanwhile, at Washington, D.C., in the semifinals of the CitiOpen as of "press time," was waiting out a rain delay, leading 5-2 (Magda is shown during her 1st round win).

    In the CitiOpen final on Sunday, Magda or Kate will play the winner of Saturday's very late match between and
    leads 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 red clay in the 2nd round at Bad Gastein, when Alize defeated Petko 6-2, 7-5.

    On Friday at La Costa Resort, Carlsbad, California (north of San Diego), in the quarterfinals of the Southern California Open, defeated 6(6)-7, 7-5, 7-6(8) (photo shown).

    In the Southern California Open semifinals on Saturday, Virginie will play the 2011 US Open champion, 29 year old 5th seeded #13 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia.

    Samantha leads Virginie 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the 2nd round at Osaka, when Sam defeated Virginie 1-6, 6-2, 6-4.

    Meanwhile, at Washington, D.C., in the quarterfinals of the CitiOpen the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 25 year old #63 (career high: #9, ranking down due to injury) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated (Andrea is shown while doing the "Petko Dance" after match point).

    In the CitiOpen semifinals on Saturday, Andrea will play the 2013 champ at Strasbourg (and the 2012 champ at Bad Gastein), 23 year old 4th seeded #30 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Alize leads Andrea 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 red clay in the 2nd round at Bad Gastein, when Alize defeated Petko 6-2, 7-5.

    On Thursday at La Costa Resort, Carlsbad, California (north of San Diego), in the 2nd round of the Southern California Open, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Urszula said: "I had never played Jelena before and it was a very tough match. There were tough conditions today—it was pretty warm out there—so I'm happy that I fought until the very end." WTA story

    In the Southern California Open quarterfinals on Friday, Urszula will play
    Vika leads Urszula 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 4th round at Indian Wells, when Victoria defeated Urszula 6-3, 6-1.

    Meanwhile, at Washington, D.C., in the 2nd round of the CitiOpen defeated 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 (Sorana is shown while defeating Coco Vandeweghe last week in the 2nd round at Stanford).

    In the CitiOpen quarterfinals on Friday, Sorana will play the 2013 champ at Strasbourg (and the 2012 champ at Bad Gastein), 23 year old 4th seeded #30 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France.

    Sori leads Alize 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Guangzhou, when Sorana defeated Alize 6-4, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at La Costa Resort, Carlsbad, California (north of San Diego), in the 1st round of the Southern California Open, defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ana struck 10 aces—though with 9 double faults—while scoring on 8 of the 12 break points she reached against Dominika and totaling 100 points. Domi hit 2 aces, with 6 DFs, and converted 5 of her 10 break points against Ana while totaling 88 points.

    Ana said: "As soon as the draw came out I thought this was one of the toughest first round matches, but I was really happy with my performance today, especially in the last two sets. Since Wimbledon I've been working on consistency and hitting a lot of balls, and I did work out in the gym a lot, trying to get stronger and more stable. This gives me good motivation to keep doing that." WTA story

    In the Southern California Open 2nd round on Thursday, Ana will play
    Ana and Coco have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile, at Washington, D.C., in the 2nd round of the CitiOpen defeated her compatriot, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Andrea said: "Players like Mona, who play that fast and are unpredictable, can come back at any time, so if I had dropped my intensity for one second it wouldn't have turned out like this. The key to winning today was the first three games. I held my serve after facing break point and then after that I got really comfortable on my serve. I was happy I started off great and then kept it up, too." WTA story

    In the CitiOpen quarterfinals on Friday, Andrea will play either the 2013 finalist at Florianopolis, 25 year old #74 (career high: #32) Olga Puchkova of Russia (residence: Miami Shores, FL), or
    Andrea and Olga have never met in pro singles.

    Andrea and Paula have met only once before, earlier this year on red clay in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Marseille, when Andrea defeated Paula 6-1, 6-3.

    On Tuesday at La Costa Resort, Carlsbad, California (north of San Diego), in the 1st round of the Southern California Open, 23 year old qualifier #134 (career high: #35) Sesil Karatantcheva from Astana, Kazakhstan, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The match was a mess. Sesil put only 37% of her 1st serves in the box and scored on just 6 of the 18 break points she reached against Julia; Julia converted only 4 of the 12 break points she held against Sesil.

    In the Southern California Open 2nd round on Wednesday, Sesil will play
    Sam and Sesil have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile, at Washington, D.C., in the 1st round of the CitiOpen defeated 23 year old qualifier #165 (career high: #74) Irina Falconi from Atlanta, Georgia, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the CitiOpen 2nd round on Wednesday, Angelique will play a 2009 US Open quarterfinalist, 21 year old #139 (career high: #31) Melanie Oudin from Marietta, Georgia.

    Angelique and Melanie have met only once before, in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Dallas, when Angelique defeated Melanie 6-3, 6-2.

    On Monday at La Costa Resort, Carlsbad, California (north of San Diego), in the 1st round of the Southern California Open, the 2011 US Open champion, 29 year old 5th seeded #13 (career high: #4) Samantha Stosur from Gold Coast, Australia, defeated 7-5, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Sam won 72% of her 1st serve points and scored on 5 of the 10 break points she reached against Varvara; Varvara won only 47% of her 1st serve points and converted only 2 of the 8 break points she held against Samantha.

    In the Southern California Open 2nd round on on Wednesday or Thursday, Samantha will play the winner of Tuesday's 1st round match between and a qualifier yet to be named as of this writing.

    Meanwhile, at Washington, D.C., in the 1st round of the CitiOpen defeated 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the CitiOpen 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Magda will play her compatriot
    Magda and Jana have met only once before, a year ago on the same Deco-Turf hardcourts in the quarterfinals at DC, when Magda defeated Jana 6-2, 6-4.

Stanford:

#58 Tamira Paszek
5' 5" 132lb RH 2H-BH Stanford:

#36 Varvara Lepchenko
5'11" 159lb LH 2H-BH Stanford:

#200 Nicole Gibbs
5' 6" RH 2H-BH Stanford:

#29 Jamie Hampton
5' 8" 150lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Stanford, in the semifinals of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the Stanford final on Sunday, Dominika will play and
    Agnieszka leads Dominika 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the final at Sydney, when Aga defeated Domi 6-0, 6-0.

    Dominika and Jamie have never before met on the field of combat.

    Dominika is 2-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 21-16 singles match record in 2013.

    Agnieszka is 12-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 37-10 singles match record this year.

    Jamie is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 29-15 singles match record in 2013.

    In Azerbaijan on Saturday, in the semifinals of the Baku Cup, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the Baku final on Sunday, Shahar will play
    Shahar and Elina have met only once before, early this year on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Shenzhen, when Elina defeated Shahar 6-1, 6-3.

    Elina is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has won 5 ITF singles titles, 1 WTA doubles title, and 2 ITF doubles titles. Elina has a 23-17 singles match record this season.

    Shahar is 5-3 in previous WTA singles finals, but she has not won a title since 2009 and this is the first final she has reached since 2011. Shahar has a 23-30 singles match record for the year.

    On Friday at Stanford, in the quarterfinals of the Bank of the West Classic, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 23 year old 5th seeded #33 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Sorana struck 6 aces with one double fault while scoring on 4 of the 8 break points she reached against Olga and totaling 62 points in the match. Olga hit no aces, with 5 DFs, and converted the one break point she reached against Sorana while totaling 41 points.

    Sorana said: "Before I came to Stanford I was practicing really, really hard for two weeks [at the Las Vegas Adidas camp, including some training with Steffi Graf]. It's nice to see all of this work paying off. I put my head down, did my daily things and worked hard, and now I'm feeling much better on the court and in my legs. I feel like a different player out there on the court. And I really love it here in Stanford. It's such a nice start to the US Open Series." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Stanford, the 2012 champion at San Diego, 24 year old 3rd seeded #21 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    5' 3" Domi won 70% of her 1st serve points and 48% of her 2nd serve points; Urszula won 55% of her 1st serve points and 36% of her 2nd serve points.

    Dominika said: "The key today was staying aggressive. [Urszula is] the kind of player who waits for your mistakes and uses your power, and I was doing great in the first set until 5-1. But then I started hoping she'd just give me the set, and all of a sudden it was 5-all and she was up 30-0 on my serve. But I made that game, and all of a sudden I started playing my game again and won the set. In the start of the second set I played more down-the-lines. She couldn't read where I was going anymore."

    Dominika will play Sorana in the Bank of the West Classic semifinals on Saturday.

    Domi leads Sori 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was one year ago on the same Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Stanford, when Sorana defeated Dominika 6(7)-7, 6-2, 6-0.

    On Friday at Stanford, in the quarterfinals of the Bank of the West Classic, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 23 year old 5th seeded #33 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, defeated 24 year old #87 (career high: #35) Olga Govortsova from Minsk, Belarus, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Sorana struck 6 aces with one double fault while scoring on 4 of the 8 break points she reached against Olga and totaling 62 points in the match. Olga hit no aces, and had 5 DFs, while converting the one break point she reached against Sorana and totaling 41 points.

    Also on Friday at Stanford, the 2012 champion at San Diego, 24 year old 3rd seeded #21 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 22 year old 8th seeded #40 (career high: #29) Urszula Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.
7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    5'3" Domi won 70% of her 1st serve points and 48% of her 2nd serve points; Urszula won 55% of her 1st serve points and 36% of her 2nd serve points.

    Dominika will play Sorana in the Bank of the West Classic semifinals on Saturday.

    Domi leads Sori 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was one year ago on the same Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Stanford, when Sorana defeated Dominika 6(7)-7, 6-2, 6-0.

    On Thursday at Stanford, in the 2nd round of the Bank of the West Classic, the 2012 champion at San Diego, 24 year old 3rd seeded #21 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 7-5, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Domi will play 22 year old 8th seeded #40 (career high: #29) Urszula Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Domi and Urszula are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was this year on red clay in the 1st round at Oeiras (the tournament until recently known as Estoril), when Urszula defeated Dominika 2-6, 6-4, 6-4.

    Also on Thursday at Stanford, defeated 7-5, 6(5)-7, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Jamie will play the winner of Thursday's late match between and the 2009 champion in Istanbul, 24 year old qualifier #153 (career high: #31) Vera Dushevina from Khimki, Russia (a suburb north of Moscow).

    On Wednesday at Stanford, in the 2nd round of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Sorana will play
    Sorana and Olga have met only once before, in 2012 on red clay in the quarterfinals at Barcelona, when Sorana defeated Olga 2-6, 6-1, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Stanford, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Varvara will play
    Agnieszka leads Varvara 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on blue clay in the quarterfinals at Madrid, when Agnieszka defeated Varvara 6-4, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Stanford, in the 1st round of the Bank of the West Classic, 27 year old 6th seeded #36 (career high: #19) Varvara Lepchenko from Allentown, Pennsylvania (birthplace: Tashkent, Uzbekistan), defeated 20 year old qualifier #112 (career high: #76) Michelle Larcher De Brito of Portugal (residence: Bradenton, Florida), 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Varvara will play the 2012 Eastbourne champion, 22 year old #115 (career high: #27) Tamira Paszek from Dornbirn, Austria.

    Varvara and Tamira are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on a hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Seoul, when Varvara defeated Tamira 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-4.

    Also on Tuesday at Stanford, the 2012 BOTWC finalist, 21 year old qualifier #243 (career high: #89) Coco Vandeweghe from Rancho Santa Fe, California, defeated 6-0, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Coco will play the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 23 year old 5th seeded #33 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania.

    Sorana and Coco are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in January of this year a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Sorana defeated Coco 6-4, 6-2.

    On Monday at Stanford, in the 1st round of the Bank of the West Classic, defeated 22 year old #78 (career high: #68) Mallory Burdette from Jackson, Georgia, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Francesca will play
    Francesca leads Agnieszka 4-3 in career matches; however, Francesca won their first four meetings, and Agnieszka won their last three—all in straight sets. Their most recent encounter was in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round at Eastbourne, when Agnieszka defeated Francesca 6-3, 6-2.

    Also on Monday at Stanford, defeated 7-6(2), 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Olga will play
    Samantha and Olga have never before met on the field of combat.

    Baku: A good New York Times story from 1884 describing Baku and it's oil industry can be read at Azerbaijan News and Links

Båstad:

#77 Johanna Larsson
5' 9" 146lb RH 2H-BH Bad Gastein:
#110 Andrea Hlavackova
5'8½" 136lb RH 2H-BH Bad Gastein:
#112 Yvonne Meusburger
5'9" 132lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Båstad, Sweden, in the final of the Collector Swedish Open, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (Serena is shown distributing a popular beverage at the post-match ceremony).

    Serena's prize is $40,000; Johanna's prize is $20,000.

    Serena said: "It was really good to come here and win after a disappointing Wimbledon [losing in the 4th round to Sabine Lisicki] so hopefully this confidence will help me for the rest of the year." AP story

    Johanna said: "At the crucial points I wasn't really present, which was a shame."

    Serena and Johanna had met only once before, earlier this year in Fed Cup play at Delray Beach, Florida, when Serena defeated Johanna 6-2, 6-2.

    Serena is now 53-16 in WTA singles finals. She has a 51-3 singles match record this year, losing only to Sabine Lisicki, Victoria Azarenka, and Sloane Stephens.

    Johanna is now 0-3 in WTA singles finals. She has a 16-20 singles match record for the season.

    Meanwhile at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the semifinals of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, the 2007 finalist at Bad Gastein (and last week's finalist at Budapest), 29 year old #112 (last week; this week #86, career high: #60) Yvonne Meusburger from Schwarzach, Austria.
defeated 7-5, 6-2 (Yvonne is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Yvonne's prize is $40,000; Andrea's prize is $20,000.

    Yvonne and Andrea had met only once before, in 2009 in the 2nd round of an ITF tourney at Hechingen, Germany, when Yvonne defeated Andrea 6-3, 6-4.

    Yvonne is now 1-2 in WTA singles finals. She has a 39-12 singles match record in 2013, winning 21 of her last 25 matches.

    Andrea was playing in her first WTA singles final; she has won 13 WTA doubles titles, 17 ITF doubles titles, and 7 ITF singles titles. Andrea has a 13-19 singles match record this season.

    On Friday at Båstad, Sweden, in the quarterfinals of the Collector Swedish Open, the 2013 champ at Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, crushed, killed and destroyed the 2011 champ at Bogota, 32 year old 5th seeded #58 (career high: #40) Lourdes Dominguez Lino from Barcelona, Spain, 6-1, 6-1 (Serena is shown while defeating Sesil Karatantcheva in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    Serena said: "[Lourdes] was playing really well, so I had to be patient and stay out there as long as I could. I'm getting more used to the clay again. It feels a little better now. I want to play two more matches and win on the last day, but I have a really tough opponent coming up." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Klara 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2009 on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Serena defeated Klara 6-3, 6(7)-7, 6-4. Klara had defeated Serena a few weeks earlier, on red clay in the 1st round at Marbella, Spain, 6-4, 3-6, 6-1.

    About that win, Klara said: "She was just coming from Miami and was a little bit tired and injured. It's not like the Serena today. She's playing amazing tennis."

    Meanwhile at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the quarterfinals of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, similarly demolished 6-0, 6-1 (Karin is shown while defeating Alexandra Cadantu in the 2nd round on Wednesday).

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Karin will play the 2007 finalist at Bad Gastein (and last week's finalist at Budapest), 29 year old #112 (last week; this week #86, career high: #60) Yvonne Meusburger from Schwarzach, Austria.

    Yvonne leads Karin 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on carpet in the 2nd round of an ITF tourney at Ismaning, Germany, when Yvonne defeated Karin 6-4, 6-4.

    On Thursday at Båstad, Sweden, in the 2nd round of the Collector Swedish Open, the 2013 champ at Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Serena is shown while defeating Sesil Karatantcheva in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    On Wednesday evening, Serena had won ESPY awards as best female athlete and best female tennis player.

    Serena said: "I want to do the best that I can here. I'm staying really focused, Grand Slam style. You never want to go to a tournament and not win, or at least not perform your best. I don't know if I'll end up winning the tournament this week, but I want to play some of my best tennis here." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2011 champ at Bogota, 32 year old 5th seeded #58 (career high: #40) Lourdes Dominguez Lino from Barcelona, Spain.

    Serena leads Lourdes 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in May of this year on red clay in the 2nd round at Madrid, when Serena defeated Lourdes 6-2, 7-5.

    Meanwhile at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the 2nd round of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, the 2012 Roland Garros juniors champion, 19 year old 2nd seeded #53 (last week, this week at a new career high: #50) Annika Beck from Giessen, Germany, defeated 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 (Annika is shown while defeating Shahar Peer in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Annika will play the 2008 finalist at Antwerp, 26 year old 8th seeded #72 (career high: #35) Karin Knapp from Lutago, Italy.

    Annika and Karin have met only once before, a few weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Nuremberg, when Annika defeated Karin 6-4, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Båstad, Sweden, in the 2nd round of the Collector Swedish Open, defeated 28 year old #142 (career high: #79) Nina Bratchikova of Russia (residence: Tavira, Portgual), 6-2, 6-3 (Johanna is shown while defeating Sofia Arvidsson in the 1st round on Monday).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Johanna will play the winner of Thursday's match between and qualifier #291 Andrea Gamiz of Venezuela.

    Also in the 2nd round on Thursday at Båstad, the 2013 champ at Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, will play 23 year old #101 Anna Tatishvili of Georgia (residence: Boca Raton, Florida).

    Serena and Anna have met only once before, several weeks ago on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Serena defeated Anna 6-0, 6-1.

    Meanwhile at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the 2nd round of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, defeated 7-6(5), 4-6, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Karin will play the winner of Thursday's match between and 27 year old #90 (career high: #66) Mandy Minella from Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.

    On Tuesday at Båstad, Sweden, in the 1st round of the Collector Swedish Open, the 2013 champ at Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown)

    Sesil was plagued by 14 double faults during the match.

    Serena said: "I'm always happy to get to the next round. It doesn't matter who you play, it's always a really good win to go on and move on, so I'm happy I made it through the match." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Serena will play 23 year old #101 Anna Tatishvili of Georgia (residence: Boca Raton, Florida).

    Serena and Anna have met only once before, several weeks ago on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Serena defeated Anna 6-0, 6-1.

    Meanwhile at Bad Gastein, Austria, in the 1st round of the Nurnberger Gastein Ladies Open, defeated 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown)

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Annika will play
    Annika and Mandy have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday at Båstad, Sweden, in the 1st round of the Collector Swedish Open, 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 (Flavia is shown while playing Serena Williams in the 2nd round at Miami this year.)

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Flavia will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and wild card #497 Rebecca Peterson of Sweden.

    Also on Monday at Båstad, defeated her compatriot and doubles partner, 6-1, 6-1 (Johanna is shown while defeating Lara Arruabarrena in the 1st round at Budapest last week.)

    Johanna said: "I was trying to play heavy with some topspin deep in the court and put her on defense. That was my game plan. I think I did that pretty well today...

    "I'm obviously very happy to be in the second round. It's sad I had to play Sofia in the first round. But one of us had to win, and I'm happy that it was me." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Johanna will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and qualifier #352 Lesley Kerkhove of the Netherlands.

Madrid (file, May 10)

#79 Anabel Medina Garrigues
5'6½" 130lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday in Hungary, in the final of the Budapest Grand Prix, defeated 6-3, 6(7)-7, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Simona's prize is $40,000; Yvonne's prize is $20,000.

    Simona said: "It was an amazing match. Yvonne played really well. I had match points in the second set and she came back, and it was very difficult to win after that but I did and I'm very happy. It's a fantastic feeling to win my third WTA title of the year. I just believed in my chances and I've taken them. I'm really enjoying my game right now. I hope that I can keep winning." WTA story

    Yvonne said: "I think Simona and I played a really good match today. It was a great atmosphere to play here. The people were really great and they were helping us both during the match, I think. But at the end she was just better and she really deserved to win the title today. I'm still happy, because I played a really good tournament. I'm only taking positive things with me from here. I'm really happy how this tournament ended and I'm looking forward to the next one."

    Simona now leads Yvonne 3-1 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in 2010 on red clay in the 2nd round of qualifying at Barcelona, when Simona defeated Yvonne 2-6, 7-6(4), 6-3.

    Simona is now 3-3 in WTA singles finals, winning all 3 titles in her last 4 tournaments. She has a 30-12 singles match record this year, winning 22 of her last 25 matches, and 17 of her last 17.

    Yvonne is now 0-2 in WTA singles finals. She has a 34-12 singles match record in 2013, winning 16 of her last 20 matches.

    Meanwhile at the Country Time Club, Palermo, Sicily, in the final of the ItaliaCom Open, defeated her usual doubles partner, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Roberta's prize is $40,000; Sara's prize is $20,000.

    Sara still leads Roberta 5-3 in career matches.. Their previous meeting was earlier this year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Dubai, when Sara defeated Roberta 6-3, 6-3.

    Roberta is now 9-1 in WTA singles finals, and has a 36-16 singles match record this season.

    Sara is now 7-7 in WTA singles finals, and has a 40-16 singles match record for the year.

    On Friday in Hungary, in the quarterfinals of the Budapest Grand Prix, defeated 4-6, 6-0, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    In the Budapest semifinals on Saturday, Chanelle will play
    Chanelle and Yvonne are tied at 2-2 in career matches. They have not met since 2008, when, on a hardcourt in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at the Bronx, Chanelle defeated Yvonne 6-3, 6-3.

    Meanwhile at the Country Time Club, Palermo, Sicily, in the quarterfinals of the ItaliaCom Open, defeated 7-5, 6(4)-7, 6-1 (Klara is shown while defeating Karin Knapp in the 2nd round on Thursday).

    In the Palermo semifinals on Saturday, Klara will play the 2013 champion at Acapulco, 26 year old top seeded #5 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Sara leads Klara 3-2 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Sara defeated Klara 7-6(6), 6-4.

    On Thursday in Hungary, in the 2nd round of the Budapest Grand Prix, the 2011 champion at Guangzhou, 29 year old 6th seeded #67 (career high: #37) Chanelle Scheepers from Harrismith, South Africa, defeated 7-5, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Chanelle said: "Today's match was very close. Petra is such a good player, so I knew I had to take my chances when I got them. The conditions were very tricky, as it was quite windy, so I'm glad to have gotten through today's match." WTA story

    In the Budapest quarterfinals on Friday, Chanelle will play 18 year old #242 (career high: #183) Danka Kovinic of Montenegro.

    Chanelle and Danka have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile at the Country Time Club, Palermo, Sicily, in the 2nd round of the ItaliaCom Open, the 2013 finalist at Shenzhen (and 2005 Palermo finalist), 31 year old 4th seeded #43 (career high: #21) Klara (Koukalova) Zakopalova from Prague, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 (Klara is shown while defeating Flavia Pennetta in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    Klara led by two breaks of serve in the 2nd set when Karin broke back twice to reach 4-5, on serve. But Klara then broke Karin's serve again to finish the match.

    In the Palermo quarterfinals on Friday, Klara will play 21 year old qualifier #112 (career high: #112) Dinah Pfizenmaier from Kamen, Germany.

    Klara and Dinah will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Wednesday in Hungary, in the 2nd round of the Budapest Grand Prix, defeated 19 year old wild card #435 (career high: #431) Agnes Butka of Hungary, 6-1, 6-1 (Simona is shown while defeating Andrea Petkovic in the Nuremberg final on June 15).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Simona will play
    Simona and Timea have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Wednesday at Budapest, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (Annika is shown while defeating Tadeja Majeric in the 1st round on Monday).

    Annika said: "We met once before and I lost pretty easily. It was time for revenge. I knew what I had to do. I tried to play aggressive, to have some variability in my game. I tried some drop shots and it worked out. I'm happy that I won." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Annika will play
    Yvonne leads Annika 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 2nd round of an ITF tourney at Olomouc, Czech Republic, when Yvonne defeated Annika 3-6, 6-3, 6-0.

    On Tuesday at the Country Time Club, Palermo, Sicily, in the 1st round of the ItaliaCom Open, defeated 6-2, 2-6, 6-3 (Klara is shown while defeating Dominika Cibulkova in the 3rd round at Indian Wells this year).

    Klara trailed Flavia 0-3 in the 3rd set before winning the last six games and the match.

    Klara said: "I had played Flavia a lot of times before so I knew it would be very tough. She's very experienced like me and she has almost exactly the same age as me. We always have battles." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Klara will play
    Karin defeated #124 Teliana Pereira of Brazil on Tuesday.

    Klara and Karin have met only once before, in 2008 on red clay in the quarterfinals at Estoril, when Klara defeated Karin 3-6, 6-4, 6-4.

    Also on Tuesday at Palermo, the 2011, 2006, 2005, 2004, and 2001 Palermo champion, 30 year old #79 (career high: #16) Anabel Medina Garrigues from Valencia, Spain, defeated the 2010 finalist at Strasbourg, 31 year old qualifier #311 Kristina Barrois from Urexweiler, Germany, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 (Anabel is shown while serving to Serena Williams in the quarterfinals at Madrid this year).

    Anabel, with a 33-4 career record at Palermo, led 6-4, 4-1 when Kristina suddenly got into the match.

    Anabel said: "It was tough. I was a set and 4-1 and a ball for 5-2, then I couldn't win the game and everything turned for [Kristina]. I was lucky that in the third set I started to play very well again and was putting pressure on her from the beginning, and in the end I could finish the match."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Anabel will play
    Anabel and Dinah have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday in Hungary, in the 1st round of the Budapest Grand Prix, the 2013 champion at 's-Hertogenbosh and Nuremberg, 21 year old 3rd seeded #32 (career high: #30) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, defeated 6-3, 6-0 (Simona is shown while defeating Andrea Petkovic in the Nuremberg final on June 15).

    Simona said: "It was a good match for me. The first round is always difficult. At 3-0 in the first, I was a little nervous and wanted to finish fast because I was waiting a lot today, but I came back and won.

    "It's nice to play on clay because I love this surface. I played well on grass, but I feel better on clay." WTA story

    In the Budapest 2nd round, Simona will play wild card #435 Agnes Butka of Hungary.

    Agnes defeated #177 Sandra Zahlavova of the Czech Republic on Monday.

    Also on Monday in Budapest, the 2012 Roland Garros juniors champion, 19 year old 4th seeded #54 (career high: #53) Annika Beck from Giessen, Germany, defeated 22 year old #130 (career high: #128) Tadeja Majeric of Slovenia 6-1, 6-2 (Annika is shown while alerting the media after she defeated Maria Elena Camerin in the Katowice quarterfinals on April 12).

    In the Budapest 2nd round, Annika will play the winner of Tuesday's match between #89 Lucie Hradecka of the Czech Republic and #252 Kathrin Woerle-Scheller of Germany.
Wimbledon:

#131 Michelle Larcher de Brito
5' 5" 125lb RH 2H-BH Wimbledon:

#20 Kirsten Flipkens
5'5" 121lb RH 2H-BH Wimbledon:

#15 Marion Bartoli
5'6¾" 139lb RH 2H-FH&BH     On Thursday at Wimbledon, in the semifinals of The Championships, narrowly defeated 6-4, 2-6, 9-7 (photo shown).

    Sabine struck 60 winners (including 9 aces), with 46 unforced errors (including 7 double faults), while scoring on 6 of the 14 break points she reached against Agnieszka and totaling 115 points. Agnieszka hit 21 winners (1 ace) with 10 unforced errors (no DFs), and also converted 6 of the 14 break points she reached against Sabine while totaling 111 points. match stats

    Sabine said: "The last few games were so exciting. Agnieszka played so well, it was a battle and I'm so happy to have won it." BBC story

    Also on Thursday at Wimbledon, demolished 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Marion struck 23 winners (including 5 aces), with 10 unforced errors (including 3 double faults), while scoring on 5 of the 7 break points she reached against Kirsten and totaling 53 points. Kirsten hit 10 winners (no aces) with 6 unforced errors (1 DF), and converted 1 of the 2 break points she reached against Marion while totaling 28 points. match stats

    Marion said: "I played so well today and was feeling so great. I was seeing the ball like a soccer ball. [KIrsten] hits a lot of slice, so I knew I needed to be sharp on my footwork, and everything was just working so perfectly. Playing like that on Centre Court at Wimbledon was just an amazing feeling for me." WTA story

    Sabine will play Marion in the Wimbledon final on Saturday.

    Sabine leads Marion 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the quarterfinals at Wimbledon, when Sabine defeated Marion 6-4, 6(7)-7, 6-1.

    Marion was defeated by Venus Williams in her only previous Grand Slam singles final, at Wimbledon in 2007. She is 7-11 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 20-12 singles match record this year. If Marion wins on Saturday, she will be #7 in Monday's WTA rankings; if she loses, she will be #8.

    Sabine is playing in her first Grand Slam singles final. She is 3-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 26-12 singles match record in 2013. If Sabine wins on Saturday, she will be #11 in Monday's WTA rankings; if she loses, she will be #18.

    On Tuesday at Wimbledon, in the quarterfinals of The Championships, the 2011 champ at Birmingham and Dallas, 23 year old 23rd seeded #23 (career high #13) Sabine Lisicki of Germany (residence: Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Sabine struck 23 winners (including 3 aces), with 19 unforced errors (including 4 double faults), while scoring on 4 of the 5 break points she reached against Kaia and totaling 68 points. Kaia hit 13 winners (3 aces) with 23 unforced errors (3 DFs), and converted 1 of the 2 break points she reached against Sabine while totaling 54 points. match stats

    Sabine, who also reached the Wimbledon semifinals in 2011, defeated #1 Serena Williams in the 4th round on Monday.

    Sabine said: "I am very happy. It was an amazing match yesterday so I had to make sure I calmed down quick enough to be ready today. But I think the experience I had of being in the quarters here three times before helped me a lot. There's no pressure because for me it's still a game I love so much and I want to keep it that way. I'm going out there for every match to win it and we'll see what happens." WTA story

    Kaia said: "I think I played a bit better yesterday. But [Sabine] played very well also. I have tried to attack all tournament, and in previous matches I hit a few more winners and today I was missing a lot."

    In the semifinals on Thursday, Sabine will play
    Sabine and Agnieszka are tied at 1-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Dubai, when Agnieszka defeated Sabine 6-2, 6-1.

    Sabine said: "Agnieszka plays a very smart game. She moves well around the court. She also was in the final last year, so she has a lot of confidence with that."

    Also on Tuesday at Wimbledon, the 2007 tourney finalist (and 2011 champion at Eastbourne and Osaka), 28 year old 15th seeded #15 (career high: #7) Marion Bartoli of France (residence: Geneva, SUI), defeated 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The match was interrupted by a long rain delay. Marion struck 6 winners (including no aces), with 12 unforced errors (including 3 double faults), while scoring on 6 of the 12 break points she reached against Sloane and totaling 76 points. Sloane hit 21 winners (3 aces) with 19 unforced errors (3 DFs), and converted 4 of the 8 break points she reached against Marion while totaling 59 points. match stats

    Marion said: "Obviously the grass is really suiting my game. It was a very tough battle." BBC story

    In the semifinals on Thursday, Marion will play last month's finalist at 's-Hertogenbosch, 27 year old 20th seeded #20 (career high: #20) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium.

    Marion and Kirsten have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday at Wimbledon, in the 4th round of The Championships, the 2011 champ at Birmingham and Dallas, 23 year old 23rd seeded #23 (career high #13) Sabine Lisicki of Germany (residence: Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-2, 1-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Sabine struck 35 winners (including 10 aces), with 25 unforced errors (including 3 double faults), while scoring on 5 of the 8 break points she reached against Serena and totaling 96 points. Serena hit 25 winners (7 aces) with 23 unforced errors (2 DFs), and converted 5 of the 16 break points she reached against Sabine while totaling 99 points. match stats

    It was the fourth consecutive time that Sabine has defeated the current French Open champion at Wimbledon. She defeated Svetlana Kuznetsova in 2009, Li Na in 2011, and Maria Sharapova in 2012 (Sabine missed Wimbledon in 2010 due to an ankle injury).

    Sabine trailed 0-3 in the 3rd set. Sabine said: "I was very unlucky to be 3-0 down. I think it was the second game of the third set when I was up 40-15. [Serena] had two net cords in a row. Then again when she served, they called it out late after a good shot of mine. But I was just fighting for every single point no matter what was happening. I'm just so glad that I could pull off the win today." WTA story

    The loss ended a 34 match winning streak by Serena. Serena said: "I didn't play the big points well enough. I definitely feel like I could have gone for it a little more on some of the shots. I didn't do what I do best. I think I had a little hesitation today. But Sabine played really well, as well. She always plays really well at Wimbledon. And she's always on against big players and on big courts... So I knew going in it would be a tough match."

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Sabine will play the 2013 champion at Brussels, 28 year old #46 (career high: #16) Kaia Kanepi from Haapsalu, Estonia.

    Sabine and Kaia have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Monday at Wimbledon, a 2013 Australian Open quarterfinalist, 20 year old 17th seeded #17 (career high: #16) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida, defeated 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 (Sloane is shown after match point).

    Sloane struck 25 winners (including 6 aces), with 31 unforced errors (including 6 double faults), while scoring on 5 of the 12 break points she reached against Monica and totaling 102 points. Monica hit 23 winners (1 ace) with 22 unforced errors (no DFs), and converted 3 of the 8 break points she reached against Sloane while totaling 90 points. match stats

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Sloane will play the 2007 tourney finalist (and 2011 champion at Eastbourne and Osaka), 28 year old 15th seeded #15 (career high: #7) Marion Bartoli of France (residence: Geneva, SUI).

    Sloane and Marion have met only once before, last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at New Haven, when Marion defeated Sloane 6-1, 0-6, 6-3.

    On Saturday at Wimbledon, in the 3rd round of The Championships, defeated 1-6, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Laura struck 25 winners (including 5 aces), with 20 unforced errors (including 2 double faults), while scoring on 4 of the 9 break points she reached against Marina and totaling 81 points. Marina hit 34 winners (12 aces) with 15 unforced errors (8 DFs), and converted 4 of the 9 break points she reached against Laura while totaling 87 points. match stats

    The win made Laura the first British woman to reach the 4th round at Wimbledon since 1998.

    Laura said: "I was really struggling to return [Marina's] serve [in the 1st set]. I just tried to work as hard as possible and stick with it until she started to get nervous, and that's what happened... The crowd were amazing. I'm so so happy to get through." BBC story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Laura will play
    Laura and Kaia have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Saturday at Wimbledon, the 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010 & 2012 tourney champion (and 2013 champ at Roland Garros, Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated the 2009 champ at Seoul, 42 year old #84 (and former #4, all time Japanese #1) Kimiko Date Krumm from Tokyo, Japan, 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    It was Serena's 600th career match victory, and her 34th consecutive win.

    Serena struck 28 winners (including 8 aces), with 12 unforced errors (including 1 double fault), while scoring on 6 of the 9 break points she reached against Kimiko and totaling 60 points. Kimiko hit 8 winners (no aces) with 9 unforced errors (no DFs), and converted 1 of the 2 break points she reached against Serena while totaling 32 points. match stats

    In the 4th round on Monday, Serena will play the 2011 champ at Birmingham and Dallas, 23 year old 23rd seeded #23 (career high #13) Sabine Lisicki of Germany (residence: Bradenton, Florida).

    Serena leads Sabine 2-0 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was in 2012 on green clay in the quarterfinals at Charleston, when Serena defeated Sabine 4-1 retired after Sabine incurred a nasty left ankle injury.

    On Friday at Wimbledon, in the 3rd round of The Championships, defeated 0-6, 7-6(4), 6-2 (Flavia is shown after match point).

    Flavia struck 23 winners (including no aces), with 19 unforced errors (including 2 double faults), while scoring on 4 of the 5 break points she reached against Alizé and totaling 78 points. Alizé hit 24 winners (2 aces) with 22 unforced errors (5 DFs), and converted 5 of the 8 break points she reached against Flavia while totaling 87 points. match stats

    Flavia said: "I think I started really tight in the beginning of the match. I wasn't pushing [Alizé] at all, like I didn't hit a good ball from the beginning. After the first set I just tried to hit more and more, I started getting more power and my serve started working a little better as well. I really felt in the second set I was really enjoying it a little bit more and playing my tennis. The tie-break was crazy, but I have to say I'm really happy about this match today." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Flavia will play
    Flavia and Kirsten are tied at 1-1 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was a few weeks ago on red clay in the 1st round of the French Open, when Kirsten defeated Flavia 2-6, 6-4, 6-0.

    Also on Friday at Wimbledon, defeated 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Marion struck 20 winners (including 1 ace), with 12 unforced errors (including 5 double faults), while scoring on 6 of the 8 break points she reached against Camila and totaling 73 points. Camila hit 24 winners (no aces) with 18 unforced errors (2 DFs), and converted 4 of the 7 break points she reached against Marion while totaling 59 points. match stats

    In the 4th round on Monday, Marion will play
    Marion and Karin have met only once before, in 2008 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Sydney, when Marion defeated Karin 6-1, 6-0.

    Rain on Friday resulted in intermittent play. Three women's singles matches (Kvitova v Makarova, Stevens v Cetkovska, & Puig v Birnerova) were stopped in progress, to be completed on Saturday. Rain is not expected to be a problem on Saturday.

    On Thursday at Wimbledon, in the 2nd round of The Championships, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 30 winners (including 9 aces), with 9 unforced errors (including no double faults), while scoring on 4 of the 9 break points she reached against Caroline and totaling 63 points. Caroline hit 15 winners (3 aces) with 5 unforced errors (1 DF), and did not reach a break point against Serena while totaling 41 points. match stats

    Serena said: "I still feel like I'm trying to adjust a lot. I feel like today I played a little better than my first round match. I feel like I had to play better. But I'm still adjusting." WTA story

    Caroline also lost to Serena in the 2nd round of this year's French Open. Caroline said: ""It's always difficult to play Serena, but I played much better today than I did at the French Open, because I knew her a little bit better. It was nice to play her on Court 1 here. It's a very nice court. The fans there really like their tennis, so it was a good experience."

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Serena will play
    Kimiko's win over Alexandra Cadantu on Thursday made her the oldest woman to reach the 3rd round at Wimbledon in the Open Era. Serena and Kimiko have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Thursday at Wimbledon, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka struck 14 winners (including no aces), with 7 unforced errors (including 1 double fault), while scoring on 5 of the 9 break points she reached against Mathilde and totaling 69 points. Mathilde hit 22 winners (no aces) with 29 unforced errors (6 DFs), while converting 1 of the 4 break points she reached against Agnieszka and totaling 47 points. match stats

    Agnieszka said: "I'm really ready for this tournament, and just happy to win those two matches in two sets and be ready for the next one." tourney story

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Agnieszka will play
    Agnieszka and Madison have met only once before, last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Aga defeated Madison 6-1, 6-1.

    On Wednesday at Wimbledon, in the 2nd round of The Championships, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Michelle struck 13 winners (including no aces), with 9 unforced errors (including 2 double faults), while scoring on 3 of the 6 break points she reached against Maria and totaling 74 points. Maria hit 21 winners (6 ace) with 18 unforced errors (5 DFs), while converting 1 of the 7 break points she reached against Michelle and totaling 61 points. match stats

    Michelle said: "The end was really nerve-wracking. I tried to stay calm. I gave it my all. It was 5-4. If I lost that, it would have been 5-all. If it were 5-all, it would have been tough to get back up again, because [Maria] was serving, and she was serving really well. I thought, 'Now or never.' I tried to stay calm, even though it's hard sometimes. I just gave it my all, like I always do, and it turned out well for me in the end." WTA story

    The court appeared to be unusually slippery; Maria fell several times during the match. Maria said: "I give [Michelle] a lot of credit. I think she played extremely well. She was really solid from the baseline. I don't feel like I was aggressive enough, that I hit the ball deep enough. I wasn't ready after the returns or serves... I don't think I've ever fallen three times in a match before in my career, so that was a little strange, but that's certainly not an excuse."

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Michelle will play
    Michelle and Karin have met only once before, in 2011 ago a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualfying at the US Open, when Karin defeated Michelle 4-6, 6-2, 7-6(1).

    Also on Wednesday at Wimbledon, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (Genie is shown after match point).

    Genie struck 14 winners (including no aces), with 11 unforced errors (including 2 double faults), while scoring on 5 of the 7 break points she reached against Ana and totaling 58 points. Ana hit 18 winners (5 aces) with 9 unforced errors (3 DFs), while converting 2 of the 5 break points she reached against Genie and totaling 44 points. match stats

    Genie said: "I was really focusing on the returns, and then once I'd got the ball back into play, controlling the point from there. I think I did that pretty well. I was nervous serving it out at the end but I'd broken [Ana] before so I knew I could do it again. I think on my day I can beat anyone. It's just about playing the way I know I can play. Today, I was able to stay with her and take my chances." WTA story

    Ana said: "Definitely I'm very, very disappointed. I really felt I'm ready to step up. But, you know, today she was just a bit better. I just have to work hard and be ready for next tournament."

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Genie will play
    Genie and Carla have never before met on the field of combat.

    Black Wednesday: Three other WTA former #1s were eliminated on Wednesday at Wimbledon:
• Victoria Azarenka withdrew due to a right knee injury.
• Caroline Wozniacki was defeated by Petra Cetkovska.
• Jelena Jankovic was defeated by Vesna Dolonc.

    And, on the men's side, Roger Federer lost to Sergiy Stakhovsky, completing the biggest wipeout in Wimbledon history.

    On Tuesday at Wimbledon, in the 1st round of The Championships, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 25 winners (including 7 aces), with 11 unforced errors (including 1 double fault), while scoring on 5 of the 6 break points she reached against Mandy and totaling 60 points. Mandy hit 5 winners (1 ace) with 6 unforced errors (1 DF), while converting the 1 break point she reached against Serena and totaling 31 points. match stats

    Although it was Serena's 32nd consecutive match victory, she was not satisfied. Serena said: "I feel like I was a little rusty for some reason today. I don't feel like I played my best tennis. I felt really upset when I lost my serve at the beginning in the second set.

    "With that being said, I think Mandy played really well. I thought she was really mixing up her shots, mixing up her game. It wasn't an easy match for me. To be honest, I'm a little excited I was able to play a tough match and get through it. There's so many ways I can improve and that I'll need to improve if I want to be in the second week." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Serena will play
    Serena and Caroline have met only once before, a few weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round of the French Open at Roland Garros, when Serena defeated Caroline 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Tuesday at Wimbledon, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Laura struck 31 winners (including 8 aces), with 17 unforced errors (including 3 double faults), while scoring on 3 of the 6 break points she reached against Maria and totaling 62 points. Maria hit 8 winners (2 aces) with 4 unforced errors (0 DFs), while converting 1 of the 2 break points she reached against Laura and totaling 48 points. match stats

    In her oncourt interview, Laura said: "I was so nervous, right up until the last point. I was walking to the net not totally sure if my forehand was in or not! That was a big one for me because of all the nerves and playing in front of my home crowd. I could have gone 5-1 up in the second and I lost my focus a little bit when I started thinking about winning. So I just tried to get back to focusing point by point." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Laura will play
    Laura and Mariana have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Monday at Wimbledon, in the 1st round of The Championships, defeated 7-6(5), 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria struck 27 winners (including 5 aces), with 18 unforced errors (including ZERO double faults), while scoring on only 1 of the 8 break points she reached against Kristen and totaling 76 points. Kristen hit 18 winners (6 aces) with 20 unforced errors (7 DFs), while failing to convert the 1 break point she reached against Maria and totaling 63 points. match stats

    Maria said: "I had a really tough first round. I expected it. I knew [Kristen] would come out playing extremely well. I think she has a good game for the grass courts. She has, as you saw, a very good serve, a good first serve. The first set we didn't break each other. Women's tennis, kind of rare.

    "It was nice to get that breaker and start the second set off being up 4-1, maybe still having chances to finish it off a bit easier than it should have been in the second. But I'm really happy with the way I came out and played my first match. The first ones are always pretty tough, especially on the grass." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Maria will play
    Maria and Michelle have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Monday at Wimbledon, defeated 20 year old #107 (career high: #102) Maria Joao Koehler from Porto, Portugal, 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Vika struck 25 winners (including 3 aces), with 14 unforced errors (including 9 double faults), while scoring on 6 of the 16 break points she reached against Maria and totaling 74 points. Maria hit 19 winners (2 aces) with 18 unforced errors (4 DFs), while converting 2 of the 7 break points she reached against Victoria and totaling 51 points. match stats

    Victoria slipped and injured her right knee early in the 2nd set.

    Vika said: "My leg kind of collapsed. It felt like my knee just turned to the other way... For two minutes I had such consistent pain that it just completely freaked me out... I was concerned, and the physios were concerned. 'Can you go through, can you play on it?' And I had no idea until I went and tried.

    "It felt really painful. One moment it was getting better, then it was inconsistent - but I just wanted to give everything I had on the court even though I knew it could get worse out there. So I really went for my shots - I felt like I had to be aggressive, to finish as quick as possible...

    "I still have to do some more check-ups to make sure. I will still have some tests today to cover every single possibility, but I still need to make the final assessments. It's good to have tomorrow so I can recover." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Victoria will play
    Vika and Flavia are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Dubai, when Flavia defeated Victoria 6-3, 6(7)-7, 6-4.

Eastbourne:

#10 Maria Kirilenko
5' 8" 127lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Eastbourne, England, in the semifinals of the AEGON International, handily defeated 6-2, 6-1 (Elena is shown holding the bowl after the match).

    Elena's prize is $117,000; Jamie's prize is $63,000.

    High winds affected play. Elena said: "It was really difficult to play today, honestly. At the beginning I was like, 'Oh my God, I just need to stay in the match, just try to play every single point. Don't think about wind and just fight.'" WTA story

    Jamie said: "[Elena] played the conditions much better than I did. Honestly, I was surprised how she was even hitting the ball in the court, and on top of that she was playing some very good tennis. She was very deserving of the title today."

    Elena and Jamie had never before met on the field of combat.

    Elena is now 2-6 in previous WTA singles finals, losing her first six, and winning her last two. She has a 22-12 singles match record in 2013.

    Jamie was playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 22-14 singles match record this year.

    Meanwhile at 's-Hertogenbosh (aka Den Bosch or Rosmalen), in the final of the Topshelf Open, won again, defeating 6-4, 6-2 (Simona is shown holding the plate after the match).

    It was Simona's 10th consecutive match victory. Simona's prize is $40,000; Kirsten's prize is $20,000.

    Simona said: "It's incredible, because I played really well on grass after a week on clay. Today I played well. I was a little bit nervous at the start but I just tried to fight for every point. [Kirsten is] playing a very difficult game for me, slicing a lot, but I played every point and just kept going, and I won in the end. I'm really happy. I want to enjoy this evening. It's a special moment for me." WTA story

    Kirsten said: "It was really not easy to play with the wind today... But Simona's in the shape of her life. She won last week on clay, and this week on grass... she played a great match against me today."

    Simona now leads Kirsten 3-0 in career matches. Their previous meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the semifinals at Fes, when Simona defeated Kirsten 7-5, 6-4.

    Simona is now 2-3 in WTA singles finals, and has a 24-11 singles match record this year, winning 16 of her last 18 matches. The losses were to Carla Suarez Navarro and Serena Williams.

    Kirsten is now 1-1 in WTA singles finals, and has a 22-15 singles match record in 2013.

    On Friday at Eastbourne, England, in the semifinals of the AEGON International, 23 year old qualifier #42 (last week; this week at a new career high: #41) Jamie Hampton from Auburn, Alabama, defeated 6(8)-7, 7-5, 6-3 (Jamie is shown after match point).

    Jamie said: "I think I stayed positive even though I had a few set points in the first set and kind of choked them away a little bit, and got down a break in the second. I think I was down 0-40 on my serve there too. But I got the hold and just stuck with it... Caroline is tough. She sticks with it whether she's winning or losing. She made me earn what I got." WTA story

    Caroline said: "I thought we actually played a very good match, even though the wind was there and was so difficult. And I had my chances, I just didn't take them. And [Jamie] played very well."

    Also on Friday at Eastbourne, the 2013 champion at Hobart, Tasmania (and doubles champ at Roland Garros), 26 year old #34 (career high: #22) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, crushed, killed and destroyed 6-2, 6-0 (Elena is also shown after match point).

    Elena said: "I was surprised. I was expecting a very long and difficult match for both of us, because Yanina is a very dangerous player and plays aggressive. It's a good style for grass, too, and she has had great wins this week, she beat two top 10 players. I thought it would be really tough today. But I think after the first set she kind of lost her concentration and didn't know what to do. Maybe the wind was affecting her game too."

    Elena will play Jamie in the Eastbourne final on Saturday. They have never before met on the field of combat.

    Elena is 1-6 in previous WTA singles finals, with a 21-12 singles match record in 2013.

    Jamie is playing in her first WTA singles final. She has a 22-13 singles match record this year.

    Elena said: "Jamie is a very talented player. She has great hands, and she's playing all over the court. She can play on the baseline and at the net. She has a great serve. It's definitely going to be a very tough match for both of us. It's her first final, as well. I'm sure she's excited about that. I'm expecting a tough match, and I'm really looking forward for that."

    At 's-Hertogenbosh (aka Den Bosch or Rosmalen) on Saturday, in the final of the Topshelf Open, 27 year old 30th seeded #20 (career high: #20) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium, will play last week's champion at Nuremberg, 21 year old #58 (career high: #37) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Simona leads Kirsten 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on red clay in the semifinals at Fes, when Simona defeated Kirsten 7-5, 6-4.

    Kirsten is 1-0 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 22-14 singles match record in 2013.

    Simona is 1-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 23-11 singles match record this year, winning 15 of her last 17 matches.

    Kirsten said: "[Simona] won a tournament last week on clay and this week is in the finals on grass, so she's an all-around player, and she's in the best shape of her life. But I am too, so I'm really looking forward to playing the final. We'll see what happens. I'm really excited about it." WTA story

    Simona said: "It's going to be a tough match. It's going to be tricky because [Kirsten] slices the ball a lot, but I will try my best like I've been doing all week here, and we'll see how it goes tomorrow."

    On Wednesday at Eastbourne, England, in the 2nd round of the AEGON International, defeated 29 year old wild card #217 (ranking down due to injury; career high: #49) Elena Baltacha from Ipswich, England, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Elena said: "I had two break points to go up 4-3 in the third, but [Maria] played an unreturnable first serve, and the second she aced me. You could see why she's had such a great year, and you can understand why she's top 10 now, definitely. She's a quality player and she's got a good game on the grass. She has a massive serve." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Maria will play the 2010 Auckland champ, 23 year old 31st seeded #32 (career high: #12) Yanina Wickmayer of Belgium (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Maria and Yanina have met only once before, early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Maria defeated Yanina 7-6(4), 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Eastbourne, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Caroline said: "For me it was just important to serve well myself and try to get as many returns in as deep as possible, and try to move her. I thought it was a very good match. I'm happy to be the winner of it." WTA story

    Laura said: "I definitely had chances. I got myself into a very good position in the points sometimes and just couldn't finish it off. I thought sometimes I was going for a little too much, but against her that's how you have to play. She's such a good defensive player."

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Caro will face
    Caro leads Kate 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the semifinals at Seoul, when Caroline defeated Ekaterina 6-1, 5-7, 6-4.

    All three British players remaining in the draw lost on Wednesday; Elena Vesnina defeated Heather Watson 6-1, 3-6, 6-2.

    On Tuesday at Eastbourne, England, in the 1st round of the AEGON International, defeated 7-6(2), 6-2 (photo shown).

    It was Jamie's first career win over a top 5 player.

    Agnieszka said: "I think playing [Jamie] in the first match on the grass was tough, and the fact that she played three matches before helped her a little bit. Of course, I was practicing here a couple of days, but I think matches are a little bit different than practice. I think I wasn't maybe quite match ready yet. Now I can just hope things turn out like last year! I lost first round here but still ended up playing great tennis at Wimbledon. WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Jamie will play
    Jamie leads Su-Wei 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last week on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round at Birmingham, when Jamie defeated Su-Wei 6-2, 6-3.

    Also on Tuesday at Eastbourne, the 2008 Wimbledon juniors champ, 19 year old #37 (career high: #35) Laura Robson from London, England, defeated 29 year old qualifier #199 (career high: #83) Yuliya Beygelzimer from Donetsk, Ukraine, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Laura said: "Overall, I'm pretty pleased. I thought I served very well, which always helps, and that's something I have been working on a lot." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Laura will face the 2012 champ at Seoul, 22 year old 5th seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Laura and Caro have met only once before, last month on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Caroline defeated Laura 6-3, 6-2.

    Caroline said: "Obviously it's going to be a different match. I'm sure [Laura] likes the grass better than the clay so it's going to be tough. She can serve very well, and she's going for it from the first ball. So she definitely offers a real challenge on the fast surfaces."

    Laura said: "I'm definitely going to have to step it up another level against Caroline."

    On Monday at Eastbourne, England, in the 1st round of the AEGON International, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Heather said: "I didn't play well at all in Birmingham, so I was very motivated for this week, and mentally very up for this first round match. I'm good friends with Varvara and was looking forward to playing her for the first time. I thought I played well today. I served well, moved well and had lots of energy, and my reactions were good. I felt I wasn't making a lot of returns, but the games I did break I thought I played well in. I want to return well like that more. But all in all, I'm happy with my performance." WTA story

    Also on Monday at Eastbourne, defeated 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana fired 11 aces in the loss. Ana said: "I really felt I played well in the beginning. It was just a few points here and there that really decided the match. I think in the second and third sets [Elena] served a lot better than in the first, and that made a big difference on the grass. And it's always tough when you play your first match on grass, sometimes everything's happening too fast. But I still felt like I had many chances. Overall I was pleased with my serving today, and in the first set I did quite a few good things." WTA story

    Elena will play Heather in the 2nd round at Eastbourne on Wednesday. Elena and Heather are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 1st round at Roland Garros, when Heather defeated Elena 6-2, 6-4.

Birmingham:

#189 Alla Kudryavtseva
5' 10" 154lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday at Birmingham, England, in the final of the AEGON Classic, defeated 7-6(5), 6-4 (Daniela is shown holding the "Maude Watson Cup" after the match).

    Daniela's prize is $40,000; Donna's prize is $20,000.

    Daniela said: "I'm always so happy coming back here year after year, and it feels great to finally get the title. The first week on grass is always really demanding on the body, so I'm proud of how I made it through so many long matches throughout the week." WTA story

    Donna said: "I gave it my all today. Maybe it wasn't my best tennis, but it was the best I could do today, and Daniela was just the better player out there. I was happy to be playing the finals. Hopefully I'll have many more matches like that."

    Daniela and Donna had never before met on the field of combat.

    Daniela is now 6-9 in WTA singles finals, and has an 21-15 singles match record in 2013.

    Donna is now 0-2 in WTA singles finals, and has an 15-7 singles match record this year.

    On Saturday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the final of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup won her first WTA singles title by defeating 6-3, 6-3 (Simona is shown with the transparentware after the match).

    Simona's prize is $40,000; Andrea's prize is $20,000.

    Simona said: "This is a very nice win for me, and this is a very nice tournament. I'll never forget this. Andrea beat me in Romania a few years ago and I'm happy I could win against her here today. She played great and the atmosphere was great. It's an unbelievable feeling to win my first WTA title." WTA story

    Andrea said: "Simona made it a little easier for me to get over the loss because she played such an incredible match. She played an almost perfect match, especially after she found her rhythm in the middle of the first set... I have a lot of respect for how she played against me. She more than deserved to win today."

    Andrea and Simona had met only once before, in 2009 on red clay in the quarterfinals at Bucharest, when Andrea defeated Simona 6-2, 7-6(2).

    Simona is now 1-3 in WTA singles finals, with a 19-11 singles match record in 2013.

    Andrea is now 2-4 in WTA singles finals, with a 15-6 singles match record this year.

    On Saturday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the final of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup the 2012 Brussels finalist, 22 year old 7th seeded #57 (career high: #37) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania, won her first WTA singles title by defeating the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 25 year old wild card #136 (last week, #103 this week, career high: #9, ranking down due to injury) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, 6-3, 6-3 (Simona is shown with the transparentware after the match).

    Simona's prize is $40,000; Andrea's prize is $20,000.

    Simona said: "This is a very nice win for me, and this is a very nice tournament. I'll never forget this. Andrea beat me in Romania a few years ago and I'm happy I could win against her here today. She played great and the atmosphere was great. It's an unbelievable feeling to win my first WTA title." WTA story

    Andrea said: "Simona made it a little easier for me to get over the loss because she played such an incredible match. She played an almost perfect match, especially after she found her rhythm in the middle of the first set... I have a lot of respect for how she played against me. She more than deserved to win today."

    Andrea and Simona had met only once before, in 2009 on red clay in the quarterfinals at Bucharest, when Andrea defeated Simona 6-2, 7-6(2).

    Simona is now 1-3 in WTA singles finals, with a 19-11 singles match record in 2013.

    Andrea is now 2-4 in WTA singles finals, with a 15-6 singles match record this year.

    Meanwhile at Birmingham, England, in the semifinals of the AEGON Classic, the 2012 finalist at Tashkent, 16 year old #88 (career high: #76) Donna Vekic from Osijek, Croatia, defeated 7-6(5), 1-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Donna said: "[Magdalena] was playing quite well in the second set, and I wasn't playing that well, but the rain delay helped me regroup and my coach told me a few things that helped a lot too. I just had to work on my serve and be more patient and stay in the points more, and I'm happy I found a way to win." WTA story

    In the Birmingham final on Sunday, Donna will play
    Daniela and Donna have never before met on the field of combat.

    Daniela is 5-9 in previous WTA singles finals, and has an 20-15 singles match record in 2013.

    Donna is 0-1 in previous WTA singles finals, and has an 15-6 singles match record in 2013.

    Due to rain all week Daniela (partnered with Su-Wei Hsieh) has not yet played a doubles quarterfinal. After the singles final on Sunday, and some time to rest, that match will be played. If Daniela and Su-Wei win, they will play a semifinal, and if they win again, the final—so Daniela could play four matches in one day.
    UPDATE: On Sunday, Su-Wei withdrew from the doubles due to respiratory illness, so Daniela will not be playing doubles after the singles final.

    On Friday at Nuremberg, Germany, in the semifinals of the Nürnberger Versicherungscup the 2011 champion at Strasbourg, 25 year old wild card #136 (last week, #103 this week, career high: #9, ranking down due to injury) Andrea Petkovic from Darmstadt, Germany, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Andrea, who won an ITF title at Marseilles last week, has now won 9 straight matches, all in the last 12 days.

    Andrea said: "I think I played a really great match today... It's really absurd—two weeks ago I was thinking about quitting tennis because I was playing so badly. I wasn't feeling good on the court and I was doubting myself a lot. But here I am now... I just need to recover tonight and put another good performance out there tomorrow." WTA story

    In the Nuremberg final on Saturday, Petko will play the 2012 Brussels finalist, 22 year old 7th seeded #57 (career high: #37) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Andrea and Simona have met only once before, in 2009 on red clay in the quarterfinals at Bucharest, when Andrea defeated Simona 6-2, 7-6(2).

    Simona is 0-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has an 18-11 singles match record in 2013.

    Andrea is 2-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 15-5 singles match record this year.

    Meanwhile at Birmingham, England, in the quarterfinals of the AEGON Classic, the 2012 finalist at Tashkent, 16 year old #88 (career high: #76) Donna Vekic from Osijek, Croatia, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the Birmingham semifinals on Saturday, Donna will play the 2009 Birmingham champion (and 2012 champ at Washington, DC), 24 year old 16th seeded #52 (career high: #40) Magdalena Rybarikova from Bratislava, Slovakia.

    Magda and Donna have met only once before, last year on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Tashkent, when Donna defeated Magdalena 7-6(3), 6-3.

    On Thursday at Birmingham, England, in the 3rd round of the AEGON Classic, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #30 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, defeated 6-1, 1-6, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Sorana will play 16 year old #88 (career high: #76) Donna Vekic from Osijek, Croatia.

    Sori and Donna have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Thursday at Birmingham, defeated 3-6, 7-6(2), 6-4 (photo shown).

    Daniela tweeted: "Very happy with my win today. Was a long day and not easy with the weather conditions. Very glad to be through into quarters!" Daniela Hantuchova at Twitter

        In the quarterfinals on Friday, Daniela will play
    Francesca leads Daniela 5-3 in career matches. This will be their first meeting on grass. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 2nd round at Sydney, when Daniela defeated Francesca 7-5, 6-1.

    On Wednesday at Birmingham, England, in the 2nd round of the AEGON Classic, the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 23 year old 3rd seeded #30 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (Sorana is shown while defeating Angelique Kerber in the 3rd round at Miami this year).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Sorana will play 21 year old 13th seeded #47 (career high: #38) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia.

    Sori leads Bojana 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Tashkent, when Sorana defeated Bojana 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Wednesday at Birmingham, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Heather is not yet fully up to speed after being sidelined for two months by mononucleosis. Heather said: "I made a lot of unforced errors and my serve was really awful, but [Alla] was a much tougher opponent [than Melinda Czink was in the 1st round]. It was frustrating because I played well in my first match and I thought it was going to get even better but it was the total opposite. I felt fine—I just think I was a bit slow to the ball and slow thinking, which comes from not playing." BBC story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Alla will play
    Alla and Alison have met only once before, in 2010 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in qualifying at San Diego (Carlsbad), when Alla defeated Alison 6-3, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Birmingham, England, in the 2nd round of the AEGON Classic, 22 year old #171 (career high: #104) Alison Riske from Hilton Head, South Carolina, defeated 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Alison is now 3-0 against Tamira. Alison said: "It was the third time I've played her and it's always been on grass, so I'm glad I pulled through. I've always really enjoyed this tournament. I think it comes down to the fact I really enjoy playing on grass and they do a really great job running this tournament. I feel at home in Birmingham." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Alison will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also in the 2nd round on Tuesday at Birmingham, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (Donna is shown while defeating Andrea Hlavackova in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Donna will play the winner of Wednesday's match between 23 year old qualifier #116 (career high: #109) Maria Sanchez from Los Angeles, California, and
    On Monday at Birmingham, England, in the 1st round of the AEGON Classic, defeated 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(3) (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Madison will play her compatriot,
    Madison and Jamie have met only once before, in 2011 on a hardcourt in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at Phoenix, Arizona, when Madison defeated Jamie 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Monday at Birmingham, 22 year old #171 (career high: #104) Alison Riske from Hilton Head, South Carolina, defeated 29 year old wild card #186 (former British #1, career high #48) Anne Keothavong from London, England, 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Alison will play the 2012 Eastbourne champion, 22 year old 4th seeded #33 (career high: #27) Tamira Paszek from Dornbirn, Austria.

    Alison leads Tamira 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last week on a chlorophyll court in the $75K ITF tourney at Nottingham, when Alison defeated Tamira 4-6, 7-5, 2-0 retired.

    Rain prevented 1st round play in Nuremberg on Monday (qualifying finals were played indoors).

Roland Garros:

#14 Ana Ivanovic
6' 1" 152lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Roland Garros, in the final of the 2013 French Open, the 2002 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated the 2012 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart), 26 year old #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), 6-4, 6-4 (Maria is shown during the match; Serena is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    The match lasted 1 hour and 46 minutes. Serena struck 29 winners (including 10 aces) with 21 unforced errors (including no double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 15 break points she reached against Maria and totaling 71 points in the match. Maria hit 10 winners (2 aces) with 17 UEs (4 DFs), and converted both of the two break points she reached against Serena while totaling 56 points. match stats - BBC "as it happened"

    Serena's prize is €1,500,000 (about $1,949,000 US); Maria's prize is €755,000 (about $981,000 US).

    It was Serena's 31st consecutive match victory. Serena said: "I think it's unbelievable. Now I have 16 Grand Slam titles. It's difficult for me to speak because I'm so excited... [Maria] played a beautiful final. She's a great champion. I hope to be with her again next year." AP story

    Maria said: "You have to get into the points with [Serena] from the beginning. Today when I had those occasions and opportunities, she would come up with a big serve or a great second ball. That's definitely the toughest part about playing against her." WTA story

    Serena now leads Maria 14-2 in career matches. Both of Maria's wins over Serena came in 2004, in the finals at Wimbledon and the WTA Championships. Their previous meeting was last month on red clay in the final at Madrid, when Serena defeated Maria 6-1, 6-4.

    16-time Grand Slam tourney champion Serena is now 52-16 in WTA singles finals (16-5 in Grand Slam singles finals), and has a 43-2 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Sloane Stephens and Victoria Azarenka.

    4-time Grand Slam tourney champion Maria is now 29-22 in WTA singles finals (4-4 in Grand Slam singles finals), and has a 36-5 singles match record this year, losing only to Serena (4 times) and Li Na.

    Sunday Men's Final: s3 Rafael Nadal ESP v s4 David Ferrer ESP
    On Wednesday at Roland Garros, in the quarterfinals of the 2013 French Open, the 2012 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart), 26 year old #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 0-6, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria struck 30 winners (including 1 ace) with 45 unforced errors (including 2 double faults) while scoring on all 4 break points she reached against Jelena and totaling 79 points in the match. Jelena hit 9 winners (no aces) with 21 unforced errors (4 DFs), and converted 4 of the 7 break points she held against Maria while totaling 74 points. stats

    It was the first time in Maria's career that she has won a match after losing the 1st set 0-6.

    Maria said: "I started the match off with a large number of unforced errors and [Jelena was] playing really well, smart, doing the right things, being consistent. It was really the opposite for me. So I was really happy I was able to win the first two games of the second set. That was really important. At least give her something to think about. She was a bit in cruise control for a long period of time. That was really important, and I'm really happy that I pulled through." WTA story

    Jelena said: "A few points here and there made the difference. I got broken in that third set, unfortunately, and made a couple of bad decisions... I cannot complain. I did pretty well. I put myself in a position to win and beat Maria. I'm pleased with the way I've been playing and how I've been improving recently."

    Also on Wednesday at Roland Garros, defeated 7-6(3), 6-2 (photo shown).

    Victoria struck 25 winners (including no aces) with 18 unforced errors (including 2 double faults) while scoring on 5 of the 11 break points she reached against Maria and totaling 73 points in the match. Maria hit 17 winners (2 aces) with 18 unforced errors (5 DFs) while converting 3 of the 4 break points she held against Victoria and totaling 63 points. match stats

    Despite the loss, her performance this year at Roland Garros will put Maria Kirilenko into the top 10 in the WTA singles rankings for the first time in her career.

    Victoria said: "In the first set I wasn't that committed to my shots, especially at the beginning. And I feel like Maria has improved so much, so I just really had to start taking my opportunities more. One or two points really decided the first set, especially in the beginning of the tie-break - the way I started was really dominant. I think that's really how I was supposed to play the entire match, to be honest. After that, that's what I kept trying to apply.
    "Maria is such a great competitor, and I couldn't be happier to go into my first semifinal here in Paris." WTA story

    Maria Sharapova will play Victoria Azarenka in the French Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Victoria leads Maria 7-5 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the semifinals of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Maria defeated Victoria 6-4, 6-2. Maria is 2-0 against Victoria on clay courts.

    Victoria said: "I know it's going to be a very tough match against the defending champion. It's our first meeting here, so it's definitely going to be exciting and interesting. It's a matter of really applying my game and not really allowing Maria to step up. She loves to hit the first two shots and make you run after the ball... It will be a battle."

    Maria said: "[Victoria has been] playing really well this tournament. Always a tough match. We have played each other so many times, there are really no secrets between each other in terms of our game styles, and what we do well and what we don't do well. It's the semifinals and, you know, I'm really looking forward to it."

    In Thursday's other semifinal, the 2002 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, will face
    Serena leads Sara 5-0 in career matches, and 2-0 on clay courts. Their most recent meeting was last month on red clay in the semifinals at Madrid when Serena defeated Sara 7-5, 6-2.

    On Tuesday at Roland Garros, in the quarterfinals of the 2013 French Open, the 2002 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 37 winners (including 4 aces) with 28 unforced errors (including 5 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 16 break points she reached against Svetlana and totaling 92 points in the match. Svetlana hit 19 winners (1 ace) with 24 UEs (1 DF), and converted 4 of the 9 break points she held against Serena while totaling 75 points. stats

    After winning the 2nd set, Svetlana took a 2-0 lead in the 3rd. Serena said: "[Svetlana] started playing better and I didn't get ready for that... I made some key errors. But I didn't have time to dwell on that because it was in the moment and I couldn't think negative. I had to stay positive and try to start making more shots at that point." WTA story

    Svetlana said: "[Serena] turns on her game when she needs it. She serves well and she's got the game, of course. And that's why she is where she is."

    Also on Tuesday at Roland Garros, the 2012 French Open finalist (and 2013 champ at Acapulco), 26 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy, defeated 6-4, 7-6(6) (photo shown).

    Sara struck 30 winners (including no aces) with 25 unforced errors (including no double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 7 break points she reached against Agnieszka and totaling 80 points in the match. Agnieszka hit 27 winners (2 aces) with 27 unforced errors (2 DFs) while converting 5 of the 11 break points she held against Sara and totaling 72 points. match stats

    Agnieszka said: "In these conditions with such a lot of wind... it didn't matter who was serving. That's why there were so many breaks. But I think it was a very good match anyway, and very close too, especially in the second set. But all our matches are really close. [Sara] was playing very solid tennis and didn't miss much. She was playing her game and didn't give me any free points." WTA story

    Serena will play Sara in the French Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Serena leads Sara 5-0 in career matches, and 2-0 on clay courts. Their most recent meeting was last month on red clay in the semifinals at Madrid when Serena defeated Sara 7-5, 6-2.

    In the French Open quarterfinals on Wednesday, the 2012 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart), 26 year old #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), will play the 2013 champ at Bogota (and 2007 & 2008 Rome champion), 28 year old 18th seeded #18 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Maria leads Jelena 7-1 in career matches. They have never before met on a clay court. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the semifinals at Miami, when Maria defeated Jelena 6-2, 6-1.

    In Wednesday's other quarterfinal, the 2013 Australian Open and Doha champion, 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), will play the 2013 champion at Pattaya City, 26 year old 12th seeded #12 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia.

    Victoria leads Maria 3-2 in career matches. They, too, have never before met on a clay court in pro singles. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the bronze medal match of the London Olympic Games at Wimbledon, when Victoria defeated Maria 6-3, 6-4.
    On Monday at Roland Garros, in the 4th round of the 2013 French Open, the 2012 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells & Stuttgart), 26 year old #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA and Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria struck 17 winners (including 1 ace) with 20 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 4 of the 12 break points she reached against Sloane and totaling 72 points in the match. Sloane hit 15 winners (1 ace) with 25 unforced errors (4 DFs), and converted 1 of the 3 break points she held against Maria while totaling 54 points. stats

    Maria said: "I think Sloane has a tremendous amount of potential. And she has a lot of things in her game in which there is a lot of room for even more improvement. There are some players you play against and you're not quite sure if they will be able to develop something to a different level, but I think she will." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Maria will play the 2013 champ at Bogota (and 2007 & 2008 Rome champion), 28 year old 18th seeded #18 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Maria leads Jelena 7-1 in career matches. They have never before met on a clay court. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the semifinals at Miami, when Maria defeated Jelena 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Monday at Roland Garros, the 2013 Australian Open and Doha champion, 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Victoria struck 19 winners (including 1 ace) with 14 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 7 of the 12 break points she reached against Francesca and totaling 61 points in the match. Francesca hit 10 winners (2 aces) with 24 unforced errors (2 DFs) while converting 2 of the 6 break points she held against Victoria and totaling 35 points. match stats

    Victoria said: "Francesca is such a tough opponent. It's always difficult to get used to her game, too. She can do anything. And I wasn't very accurate at the beginning, either. So it probably took me a little bit of time, but I just tried to stay focused, anticipate better and take my opportunities more." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Victoria will play the 2013 champion at Pattaya City, 26 year old 12th seeded #12 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia.

    Victoria leads Maria 3-2 in career matches. They have never before met on a clay court. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the bronze medal match of the London Olympic Games at Wimbledon, when Victoria defeated Maria 6-3, 6-4.

    In the Roland Garros quarterfinals on Tuesday, the 2002 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, will play the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 27 year old #39 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Serena leads Svetlana 6-2 in career matches. They are 1-1 on clay courts. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Plexipave hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Doha, Serena defeated Svetlana 7-6(6), 7-5. Their most recent meeting on red clay was also in 2009, in the quarterfinals at Roland Garros, when Svetlana, on her way to the title, defeated Serena 7-6(3), 5-7, 7-5.

    In Tuesday's other quarterfinal, the 2013 champion at Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, will play the 2012 French Open finalist (and 2013 champ at Acapulco), 26 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Agnieszka leads Sara 6-1 in career matches, and 3-1 on clay courts. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt at Istanbul in the 3 round robin of the WTA Championships, when Agnieszka defeated Sara 6(8)-7, 7-5, 6-4.
    On Sunday at Roland Garros, in the 4th round of the 2013 French Open, the 2002 French Open champion (and 2013 champ at Rome, Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 32 winners (including 5 aces) with 21 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 4 of the 10 break points she reached against Roberta and totaling 64 points in the match. Roberta hit 13 winners (1 ace) with 12 unforced errors (1 DF), and did not convert the 1 break point she held against Serena while totaling 43 points. stats

    Serena said: "I think [Roberta] played really smart today... some of the things she did I definitely expected, and I just had to come up with an answer. I think it was working really well for her, and I made a few errors I probably shouldn't have made, but I think overall that in the end I switched game plans well actually." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Serena will play the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 27 year old #39 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Serena leads Svetlana 6-2 in career matches. They are 1-1 on clay courts. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Plexipave hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Doha, Serena defeated Svetlana 7-6(6), 7-5. Their most recent meeting on red clay was also in 2009, in the quarterfinals at Roland Garros, when Svetlana, on her way to the title, defeated Serena 7-6(3), 5-7, 7-5.

    Also on Sunday at Roland Garros, the 2012 French Open finalist (and 2013 champ at Acapulco), 26 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #5) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy, defeated 5-7, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Sara struck 33 winners (including no aces) with 27 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 7 of the 10 break points she reached against Carla and totaling 107 points in the match. Carla hit 42 winners (no aces) with 47 unforced errors (1 DF) while converting 6 of the 18 break points she held against Sara and totaling 93 points. match stats

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Sara will play the 2013 champion at Sydney and Auckland, 24 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Agnieszka leads Sara 6-1 in career matches, and 3-1 on clay courts. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt at Istanbul in the 3 round robin of the WTA Championships, when Agnieszka defeated Sara 6(8)-7, 7-5, 6-4.
    On Saturday at Roland Garros, in the 3rd round of the 2013 French Open, defeated 6-1, 7-5 (photo shown).
    Maria struck 25 winners (including 3 aces) with 34 unforced errors (including 8 double faults) while scoring on all 8 break points she reached against Jie and totaling 76 points in the match. Jie hit 8 winners (no aces) with 24 unforced errors (1 DF), and converting 4 of the 11 break points she held against Maria while totaling 58 points. match stats

    After losing the 1st set, Jie took a 4-1 lead in the 2nd. Maria said: "The good thing I can take from that match is that I played a good set, so that was a positive. But then I gave [Jie] all the momentum starting from the first game of the second set, which is really not a position that you want to be in. She's capable of turning matches around. I've seen her play against many top players where she's had great success...
    "But I'm happy with the way I found a way to win that second set without having to go into a third." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Maria will play
    Maria leads Sloane 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last month on red clay in the 3rd round at Rome, when Maria (despite feeling ill enough to withdraw from the tourney the next day), defeated Sloane 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Saturday at Roland Garros, defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Victoria struck 41 winners (including no aces) with 31 unforced errors (including 10 double faults) while scoring on 9 of the 20 break points she reached against Alize and totaling 99 points in the match. Alize hit 28 winners (3 aces) with 32 unforced errors (3 DFs), while converting 6 of the 16 break points she held against Victoria while totaling 84 points. match stats

    Vika said: "I don't think I really played the right way, or my best way, in the first set, and she definitely took advantage of that and took chances on the important moments. It was important to turn things around and finally start playing the right way in the second set, because I felt that I was playing very comfortable for her, and she started to make a lot of winners and a lot of balls.
    "So I changed that a little bit in the second set and really took my chances, moving forward, and continued to stay aggressive. That's what was bringing me the points, and the victory in the end." WTA story

    Alize said: "[Victoria is] a machine, a juggernaut... She even raised her game, while mine dipped. And even though I started well in the third, it was a bit too late to turn things around. I should have sustained my level from the first set and a half on."

    In the 4th round on Monday, Victoria will play
    Victoria leads Francesca 2-1 in career matches, and 2-0 on clay courts. They have not met since 2009, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round of the US Open Francesca defeated Victoria 4-6, 6-2, 6-2.
    On Friday at Roland Garros, in the 3rd round of the 2013 French Open, defeated 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).
    Serena struck 13 winners (including 3 aces) with 16 unforced errors (including 2 double faults) while scoring on 5 of the 6 break points she reached against Sorana and totaling 61 points in the match. Sorana hit 3 winners (no aces) with 19 unforced errors (6 DFs), and did not convert any of the 3 break points she held against Serena while totaling 33 points. match stats

    It was Serena's 27th consecutive match victory. Serena said: "Everyone, when they step out to play me, they're really bringing their A-game. I just have to get really pumped up for everything to a point where I want to win as much as I can out there, whether it's every point or just do the best that I can do. That's pretty much what I try to do." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Roberta 2-0 in career matches. They have had no prior meetings on clay. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 3rd round at Miami, when Serena defeated Roberta 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Friday at Roland Garros, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ana struck 23 winners (including 5 aces) with 21 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 10 break points she reached against Virginie and totaling 68 points in the match. Virginie hit 11 winners (1 ace) with 20 unforced errors (1 DF), converted 1 of the 4 break points she held against Ana while totaling 48 points. match stats

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Ana will play
    Aga leads Ana 6-3 in career matches, and 2-0 on clay courts. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Aga defeated Ana 6-1, 7-6(6).

    On Thursday at Roland Garros, in the 2nd round of the 2013 French Open, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Victoria struck 26 winners (including 1 ace) with 26 unforced errors (including 6 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 11 break points she reached against Annika and totaling 67 points in the match. Annika hit 16 winners (1 ace) with 23 unforced errors (3 DFs), and converted 3 of her 9 break points against Vika while totaling 54 points. match stats

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Victoria will play
    Victoria and Alize have met only once before, last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Beijing, when Vika defeated Alize 6-1, 6-0.

    Also on Thursday at Roland Garros, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Samantha struck 26 winners (including no aces) with 22 unforced errors (including 4 double faults) while scoring on 2 of the 10 break points she reached against Kristina and totaling 74 points in the match. Kristina hit 25 winners (6 aces) with 22 unforced errors (4 DFs), and did not convert the single break point she held against Samantha while totaling 64 points. match stats

    Samantha said: "Overall I was very pleased with the way I played. I thought the first set was good quality from both of us. That 5-4 game was obviously really important for me to kind of get a real hold on the match, and I played some good points. And then I was able to break early in the second set and really felt like I kicked on from there. I thought it was a nice, solid performance today." WTA story

    Kristina said: "Of course I'm a little bit disappointed with the result, because I was really looking forward to winning this match, but there are many positives as well, because I realized at the end of the match that Sam played a really, really solid match today."

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Samantha will play
    Jelena leads Samantha 6-2 in career matches; they are 1-1 on clay. Their most recent meeting was last month on red clay in the 1st round at Stuttgart, when JJ defeated Sam 6-4, 6-4.

    Samantha said: "It's always tough playing Jelena. We played about four or five weeks ago in Stuttgart and she beat me there. We played in the semis here in 2010. So we certainly played enough times on all different surfaces. I'm certainly expecting a tough match. I have to be ready to work hard, and hopefully play as well as, if not better, than what I have been doing so far this week. We'll see."

    Rain again prevented the completion of the schedule on Thursday at Roland Garros. Five 2nd round women's singles matches (three in progress, two not yet begun) were left to be played on Friday, including #2 Maria Sharapova versus #93 Genie Bouchard, suspended with Maria leading 6-2, 4-2.

    On Wednesday at Roland Garros, in the 2nd round of the 2013 French Open, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 27 winners (including 6 aces) with 9 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 4 of the 10 break points she reached against Caroline and totaling 60 points in the match. Caroline hit 14 winners (2 aces) with 14 unforced errors (3 DFs), and did not reach a break point against Serena while totaling 32 points. match stats

    Serena said: "It's important for me to win easily. It's also important for me to play well. If I play well, it will bode well for me at Roland Garros." AP story

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Serena will play
    Serena and Sorana have met only once before, last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Stanford, when Serena defeated Sorana 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Wednesday at Roland Garros, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka struck 14 winners (including 2 aces) with 5 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 5 of the 8 break points she reached against Mallory and totaling 61 points in the match. Mallory hit 23 winners (1 ace) with 28 unforced errors (no DFs), and converted 2 of the 5 break points she held against Agnieszka while totaling 40 points. match stats

    Despite averaging only 73 mph on her 2nd serve, Agnieszka won 61% of her 2nd serve points. Agnieszka said: "It depends who is on the other side of the court, but sometimes you have to risk more on the second serve, and sometimes you can just put the ball into the court. And the surface is also very important, like especially on grass courts you really have to have a good second serve." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Agnieszka will play
    Agnieszka and Dinah will be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    On Tuesday at Roland Garros, in the 1st round of the 2013 French Open, defeated 7-6(8), 4-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Marion struck 40 winners (including 4 aces) with 45 unforced errors (including 12 double faults) while scoring on 7 of the 14 break points she reached against Olga and totaling 129 points in the match. Olga hit 57 winners (1 ace) with 42 unforced errors (9 DFs), and converted 7 of her 16 break points against Marion while totaling 131 points. match stats

    The match lasted 3 hours and 12 minutes, and Olga failed to convert 2 match points. Marion said: "It shows that from a physical and mental perspective I've got the legs for three hours... I'd prefer to have won in two straight sets in an hour, but my opponent puts me on my back foot over such a long match. And to show at the end of the day that I managed to ramp up a gear and to show that I wasn't tired at all, that's very encouraging for the rest of the season." Reuters story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Marion will play
    Marion and Mariana have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Roland Garros, defeated 6-4, 7-6(7) (photo shown).

    Jelena trailed 0-5 in the 2nd set, and successfully defended 6 set points held by Daniela before winning the match in the tiebreaker.

    Jelena struck 27 winners (including 4 aces) with 21 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 3 of the 11 break points she reached against Daniela and totaling 90 points in the match. Daniela hit 26 winners (1 ace) with 32 unforced errors (2 DFs), and converted 2 of the 6 break points she held against Jelena while totaling 80 points. match stats

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Jelena will play
    Jelena and Garbine will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    Rain in Paris on Tuesday prevented the completion of the schedule, and 10 1st round women's singles matches were postponed to Wednesday.

    On Monday at Roland Garros, in the 1st round of the 2013 French Open defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria struck 25 winners (including 4 aces) with 19 unforced errors (including no double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 6 break points she reached against Su-Wei and totaling 57 points in the match. Su-Wei hit 8 winners (no aces) with 8 unforced errors (3 DFs), and did not reach a break point against Maria while totaling 31 points. match stats

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Maria will play
    Maria and Genie have met only once before, in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 2nd round at Miami, when Maria defeated Genie 6-2, 6-0.

    Also on Monday at Roland Garros, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown)

    Na had been 0-3 versus Anabel on clay courts prior to today's match.

    Na struck 26 winners (including no aces) with 37 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 10 break points she reached against Anabel and totaling 69 points in the match. Anabel hit 12 winners (no aces) with 21 unforced errors (no DFs), and converted 4 of the 12 break point she held against Na while totaling 57 points. match stats

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Na will play
    Na leads Bethanie 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was this year on red clay in the semifinals at Stuttgart, when Na defeated Bethanie 6-4, 6-3.

    On Sunday at Roland Garros, in the 1st round of the 2013 French Open crushed, killed and destroyed 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown)

    Serena struck 27 winners (including 8 aces) with only 14 unforced errors (including 1 double fault) while scoring on 5 of the 11 break points she reached against Anna and totaling 56 points in the match. Anna hit only 4 winners (no aces) with 22 unforced errors (3 DFs), and did not reach a break point against Serena while totaling 22 points. match stats

    It was Serena's 25th consecutive match victory. Serena said: "I was nervous. I'm always a little nervous going into first round matches at Slams. This time I wasn't as nervous as I was at other Grand Slams, though. But for the most part I felt pretty safe and felt good about my game and that if I just do what I did in practice, I'll be okay." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Serena will play
    Serena and Caroline have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Sunday at Roland Garros, defeated 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 (photo shown)

    Ana struck 27 winners (including 3 aces) with 36 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 4 of the 10 break points she reached against Petra and totaling 100 points in the match. Petra hit 23 winners (1 ace) with 39 unforced errors (6 DFs), and converted 2 of the 9 break point she held against Ana while totaling 81 points. match stats

    Ana said: "I started really well and played very aggressive. It was kind of heavy, but it's been that way the whole week and we have been practicing in a similar conditions, so that was not really an issue. But it was cold!"

    "In the second set I kind of let [Petra] back in a little bit. She started serving better, going for her shots and mixing up a lot of drop shots and slices. Then in the third set I stepped up again. Once I was 5-0 up, she started swinging a little more. But I still had chances, and still played good tennis, I felt... And I'm just very happy that I closed the match out." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play the winner of Monday's match between #61 Chanelle Scheepers of South Africa and #94 Mathilde Johansson of France.

    Upsets on Day 1 at Roland Garros included #85 Monica Puig of Puerto Rico defeating 11th seeded #11 Nadia Petrova of Russia, 3-6, 7-5, 6-4, and #37 Urszula Radwanska of Poland defeating #30 Venus Williams of the United States 7-6(5, 6(4)-7, 6-4. It was the 5th time in her career that Venus has lost in the 1st round of a Grand Slam tourney.

    On Saturday at Paris, the favorite to win this year at Roland Garros, alerted the media (photo shown).

    On Wednesday at Paris, arrived at Colette to promote "a premium candy line that reflects [Maria's] fun, fashionable, sweet side" (photo shown).

    Main draw play at Roland Garros will begin on Sunday, May 26. The French Open Sunday start plan for 2013 is the same as in 2008-2012: 16 matches, half of the normal Monday schedule, are moved to Sunday, and 12 "Tuesday matches" are moved to Monday, leaving only 20 women's singles matches for Tuesday.

and     On Saturday in France, in the final of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, defeated 7-6(4), 6-0 (Alize is shown hoisting the hardware after the match).

    Alize's prize is $40,000; Lucie's prize is $20,000.

    Alize said: "It was a very tight first set. We were both serving very well and we didn't break each other much. In the tie-break it came down to just one or two points, and then in the second set it went way faster because everything [Lucie] had been putting on the lines in the beginning started to go out. And I'm happy I was able to win the second set 6-0, because I was starting to get very nervous!
    "I feel great right now, winning this title at home. It's the accomplishment of a lot of work." WTA story

    Lucie, who has yet to win a WTA singles title, double faulted while serving at 4-5 in the tiebreaker. Lucie said: "Everything just turned around from there. In the first [Alize] she wasn't making any mistakes and I came so close, but from there she started playing even better. And it was already tough in the first set.
    "I wasn't thinking about any of my other finals. I was really trying my best out there. But she's a very, very good player, and I'm still happy I got five matches this week going into Roland Garros."

    Alize and Lucie had met only once before, in 2010 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Montreal, when Lucie defeated Alize 6-4, 7-5.

    Alize is now 3-3 in WTA singles finals, and has a 18-12 match record in 2013.

    Lucie is now 0-6 in WTA singles finals, and has a 9-11 match record this year.

    Meanwhile in in Belgium, in the final of the Brussels Ladies Open, defeated 6-2, 7-5 (Kaia is shown while defeating Sorana Cirstea in the 2nd round at Oeiras, Portugal this year).

    Kaia's prize is $117,000; Shuai's prize is $62,300.

    Kaia and Shuai had never before met on the field of combat.

    Kaia is now 4-4 in WTA singles finals, and has a 13-4 match record in 2013.

    Shuai is now 0-5 in WTA singles finals, and has a 14-10 match record for the season.

    On Friday in France, in the semifinals of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, the 2012 tourney finalist (and champion at Bad Gastein), 23 year old 3rd seeded #30 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, defeated 7-5, 6(5)-7, 6-3 (Alize is shown during her quarterfinal win over Chanelle Scheepers on Thursday).

    Alize said: "It's going better and better each match, which is a good sign... Eugenie was playing very aggressive and was pushing me way behind the baseline. I had to dig deep inside to find the energy to play three hours and come through at the end." WTA story

    Genie said: "I feel like I'm playing well on this surface... It's been really good preparation and has given me confidence. I'm a little disappointed with today. I tried my best, but didn't quite play my best. Some days it just doesn't happen, but I'm just going to keep working hard, practicing and getting ready for Roland Garros."

    In the Strasbourg final on Saturday, Alize will play the 2009 Strasbourg finalist, 28 year old #113 (career high: #48) Lucie Hradecka from Prague, Czech Republic.

    Alize and Lucie have met only once before, in 2010 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Montreal, when Lucie defeated Alize 6-4, 7-5.

    Alize is 2-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 17-12 match record in 2013.

    Lucie is 0-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 9-10 match record this year.

    Meanwhile in in Belgium, in the rain-delayed quarterfinals of the Brussels Ladies Open, defeated 5-7, 6-3, 7-5 (Jamie is shown while defeating Urszula Radwanska in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    Jamie said: "I'm very happy with my win today. [Roberta] is top 20 in the world and plays very, very tricky tennis, and she's very experienced. I actually felt the first set was a good set of tennis for me, so I just tried to keep my spirits up and stay positive after I lost it. I told myself to stay positive in the third and just hang in there, and I'm lucky that it went my way today." WTA story

    In the Brussels semifinals on Saturday (postponed from Friday due to rain), Jamie will play the 2012 champion at Estoril and Brisbane, 27 year old #40 (career high: #16) Kaia Kanepi from Haapsalu, Estonia.

    Jamie and Kaia have met only once before, last year on a hardcourt in the 2nd round at Tokyo, when Jamie defeated Kaia 5-7, 6-2, 6-3.

    Later on Saturday, in the Brussels final, Jamie or Kaia will play the winner of the semifinal between the 2011 Brussels finalist, 27 year old 8th seeded #38 (career high: #14) Shuai Peng from Tian Jin, China, and
    On Thursday in Belgium, in the quarterfinals of the Brussels Ladies Open, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (Shuai is shown while playing Samantha Stosur in the 3rd round at Indian Wells this year).

    In the Brussels semifinals on Friday, Shuai will play
    Shuai and Romina are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was 3 weeks ago on red clay in the 2nd round at Oeiras, when Romina defeated Shuai 6-1, 6-3.

    Meanwhile in France, in the quarterfinals of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, the 2012 champion at Bad Gastein, 23 year old 3rd seeded #30 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (Alize is shown during her 2nd round win on Wednesday).

    In the semifinals on Friday, Alize will play
    Alize and Genie have never before met on the field of combat.

    Rain prevented the quarterfinals from being completed in both Brussels and Strasbourg on Thursday, leaving 2 QFs at each venue to be played before the semifinals on Friday.

    On Wednesday in Belgium, in the 2nd round of the Brussels Ladies Open, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (Jie is shown while defeating Samantha Stosur in the 2nd round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Jie will play
    Jie and Romina have met only once before, in 2011 on red clay in the 1st round at Estoril, when Romina defeated Jie 6-4, 6-2.

    Also on Wednesday at Brussels, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (Sloane is shown while defeating Flavia Pennetta last week in the 1st round at Rome).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Sloane will play
    Sloane and Shuai have met only once before, in 2011 on green clay in the 1st round at Charleston, when Shuai defeated Sloane 6-2, 6-1.

    On Tuesday in France, in the 2nd round of the Internationaux de Strasbourg, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (Camila is shown while playing Aga Radwanska in the 4th round at Wimbledon last year).

    Camila said: "At the beginning of the match I was nervous, but then everything was going in and my confidence went up. Everything was working for me today, it was great. I will try to keep playing like I did today, playing my game and being as consistent as possible out there." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Camila will play the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ, 19 year old #92 (career high: #92) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Camila and Genie have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday at Strasbourg, the 2012 champion at Bad Gastein, 23 year old 3rd seeded #30 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, defeated her compatriot, 6-3, 6-2 (Alize is shown while defeating Lauren Davis in the 3rd round at Miami this year).

    Alize said: "It was a weird match with Mathilde, because we know each other very well and we were both a little bit nervous at the beginning of the match, even the whole match. I'm happy I got through this match in two sets, but I will have to work on some things to be more ready for tomorrow."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Alize will play 21 year old qualifier #239 Magda Linette of Poland. They, too, will be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    Meanwhile in Belgium in the 1st round of the Brussels Ladies Open, all matches were postponed to Wednesday due to rain (aka washout). The forecast for Wednesday: 50% chance of rain.

    On Saturday at Rome, in the semifinals of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    The win extended Serena's longest career winning streak to 23rd consecutive match victories. It was also her 32nd win in her last 33 matches on clay courts.

    Serena said: "I don't know if I feel better on clay this year or last year. I felt great last year and I feel great this year too. I love playing on clay and have done very well on it, even at Roland Garros." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at the Foro Italico, defeated 6-0, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Victoria said: "I know the score looks easy in the first set, but it was not easy to play. And in the second set I was happy with the way I played but I didn't take all my chances. I lost focus and Sara is a great fighter and started to play hard and go for her shots, so I had to change my game a little bit. I think I could have done more in the second set but she's a great player and I'm happy to win.

    "Over the last couple of years clay is the most challenging surface for me, but I'm feeling more and more comfortable on it and this week is proof. I'm finding my game on this surface right now."

    Vika will play Serena in the Italian Open final on Sunday. Serena leads Victoria 11-2 in career matches, and won their only prior meeting on clay, the 2012 Madrid final, 6-1, 6-3. Their most recent encounter was earlier this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the final at Doha, when Vika defeated Serena 7-6(6), 2-6, 6-3.

    Serena said: "She played well in Doha. I had opportunities I wasn't able to use and Vika played well in the important points. It was a tough tournament, though, and I was happy to be in the final."

    Victoria said: "I'm excited about tomorrow. It will be great to play someone at that level."

    15-time Grand Slam tourney champion Serena is 50-16 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 35-2 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Sloane Stephens and Victoria Azarenka.

    2-time Australian Open champion Victoria is 16-11 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 22-1 singles match record this season, losing only to Ekaterina Makarova last week at Madrid.

    On Friday at Rome, in the quarterfinals of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2013 champion at Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I definitely felt like I needed to start strong. It was the same as before, I'm really just focused on me, more or less. I'm in the semifinals now and my goal is to do two better here." WTA story

    It was Serena's 22st consecutive match victory, a career record. She had won 21 straight matches twice before, in 2002 and 2003.

    Serena said: "I guess this is the best period in my career, but I don't really think about it. For me it's just about winning matches and winning tournaments and being consistent"

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play the 2011 Fès finalist, 22 year old #64 (career high: #37) Simona Halep from Constanta, Romania.

    Serena and Simona have met only once before, in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the 2nd round of The Championships at Wimbledon when Serena defeated Simona 3-6, 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Friday at the Foro Italico, the 2013 Australian Open and Doha champion, 23 year old 3rd seeded #3 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-4, 1-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Victoria struck 14 winners (including no aces) with 36 unforced errors (including 8 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 10 break points she reached against Samantha and totaling 83 points in the match. Sam hit 34 winners (1 ace) with 38 errors (5 DFs) while converting 6 of her 11 break points against Vika and totaling 88 points.

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Vika will play the 2012 champ at Barcelona, 25 year old 7th seeded #7 (career high: #6) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Sara advanced to the semifinals when the 2012 tourney champ, 2nd seeded #2 Maria Sharapova withdrew from the tournament due to illness.

    Victoria leads Sara 5-1 in career matches, and has won all three of their prior meetings on clay. Their most recent encounter was earlier this year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the quartefinals at Doha, when Vika, on her way to the title, defeated Sara 6-2, 6-2.

    On Thursday at Rome, in the 3rd round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2013 champion at Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-0, 6-1 (photo shown).

    It was Serena's 21st consecutive match victory, tying her career-longest streaks in 2002 and 2003. Serena said: "Nothing is ever perfect. I learned that last year when I felt perfect [Serena was defeated by #111 Virginie Razzano in the 1st round at Roland Garros, 4-6, 7-6(5), 6-3]. I am still in the danger zone. I can't remember the other winning streaks, but I hope I can get to 22 and the rest of the matches that I have here. Plus seven, and Wimbledon too, so it would be dangerous to lose now." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2012 Estoril finalist (and a quarterfinalist at Melbourne in 2009 and at Roland Garros in 2008), 24 year old #23 (career-high: #19) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Serena and Carla have met only once before, in 2010 on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of the Australian Open, when Serena defeated Carla 6-0, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at the Foro Italico, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will play the 2012 champ at Barcelona, 25 year old 7th seeded #7 (career high: #6) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Maria leads Sara 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in March of this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the quartefinals at Miami, when Maria defeated Sara 7-5, 7-5. Their only prior meeting on clay was last year in the final at Roland Garros, when Maria defeated Sara 6-3, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Rome, in the 2nd round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2012 & 2011 Rome champion, (and 2013 champ at Indian Wells and Stuttgart), 26 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "[Garbine] is a rising player from Spain and is playing well, and the conditions were windy out there, but I was able to adjust and win this match. I knew going into the match I needed to be sharp and as quick as possible, and I did a few specific things well out there, and that's about it." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Maria will play a 2013 Australian Open quarterfinalist, 20 year old 16th seeded #17 (career high: #16) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida.

    Maria and Sloane have met only once before, last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the 3rd round at Miami, when Maria defeated Sloane 6-4, 6-2.

    Also on Wednesday at Rome, defeated her compatriot, 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Jelena will play
    Na leads Jelena 4-3 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a hardcourt in the semifinals of the Tokyo Pan Pacific Open, when Jelena defeated Na 6-4, 6-3.

    On Tuesday at Rome, in the 2nd round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Laura, who defeated Serena's sister Venus Williams 6-3, 6-2 on Monday, did not play as well on Tuesday. She was plagued by 8 double faults, including one on match point.

    Serena said: "It went well. It was a good match. [Laura] played really well and really smart. She's just a great player and I think she has such a big future, and I really like her as a person, too." WTA story

    Laura said: "[Serena] played really well today. She didn't give me many opportunities. I thought it could have been a little bit closer. I had some break points I didn't take advantage of. But it was a learning experience and hopefully I'll play against her again soon."

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday at Rome, in a 1st round match, 21 year old #44 (career high: #38) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia, defeated 2-6, 6-4, 7-6(5) (Bojana is shown after match point).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Bojana will play her compatriot, the 2007 & 2008 Rome champion (and the 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old #18 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates).

    Bojana and Jelena are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Beijing, when Bojana defeated Jelena 4-6, 6-2, 6-2.

    On Monday at Rome, in the 1st round of the Internazionali d' Italia Alice Cup (aka the Italian Open), the 2008 Wimbledon juniors champ, 19 year old #41 (career high: #38) Laura Robson from London, England, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    High winds affected play. Laura said: "I always have trouble with the wind so it was kind of tough in the first set, but then it sort of settled down. The hardest part for me was on my service games, having to wait so long between the first and second serves because of the wind. But I just got used it, and I got centered. It's hard to play high quality tennis in the wind, but I'm still happy to have won today." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday evening (at 9pm Rome time), Laura will face Venus's sister, the 2013 champion at Madrid, Charleston, Miami, and Brisbane, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Serena was watching as Laura defeated Venus. Serena said: "[Laura] has a great game and is really young and free. She plays so smooth and is also a lefty, which just adds another notch to her level. She's a great girl and it's good to see her playing so well these days. I've never played her before and I'm looking forward to it. It's a tough second round."

    Laura said: "I've always wanted to play [Serena]. It'll be a good test. She's playing probably her best tennis. It's going to be insanely tough, but I'm just going to go out there and do my best."

    Also on Monday at Rome, the 2007 & 2008 Rome champion (and the 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old #18 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-3, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Jelena will play the winner of Tuesday's match between the 2012 champ at Seoul, 22 year old 10th seeded #10 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), and 21 year old #44 (career high: #38) Bojana Jovanovski from Belgrade, Serbia.

    On Saturday at Madrid, Spain, in the semifinals of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I guess I'm a little happy. I feel that I played solid. In the second set more than the first I made less errors, which was something that I really needed to do today." WTA story

    Sara said: "I didn't serve very well... I couldn't put them where I wanted to because she was putting so much pressure on me with the return. I have to be better in that, but it's not easy."

    Serena is now 27-1 on clay courts since the start of last season.

    Also on Saturday in Spain, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "In my previous match against [Ana], a couple of weeks ago in Stuttgart, I had a bit of a letdown in the second set. After losing that early break in the second set today I remembered that moment and didn't want to let it happen again. I thought I played a pretty good game to get myself back in that second set, a good return game. And overall I'm pretty happy with how I played today." WTA story

    Ana said: "It was a lot closer than the score indicates. I had a lot of chances, especially in the first set. I felt I lacked a little bit of energy and accuracy on my shots in the most important moments, and [Maria is] such a great player, so you really have to be on top of your game if you want to win against her."

    It was Maria's 21st consecutive clay court victory, and the 500th match victory of her career.

    Maria will play Serena in the Madrid final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Maria 12-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was this year on a Laykold hardcourt in the final at Miami, when Serena defeated Maria 4-6, 6-3, 6-0.

    15-time Grand Slam tourney champion Serena is 49-22 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 30-2 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Sloane Stephens and Victoria Azarenka.

    4-time Grand Slam champion Maria is 29-20 in previous WTA singles finals. Maria has a 28-3 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Serena Williams (twice) and Li Na.

    Serena said: "I look forward to it. I feel like this whole tournament I've only played clay court players from my first round to now, and everyone was also smaller than me. So I think tomorrow will be a really good match. A different game, more power obviously, but still a lot of the consistency. So I'm looking forward to it."

    If Maria defeats Serena, she will retake the #1 position in next week's WTA singles rankings.

    Maria said: "It's always tough against [Serena]. I haven't had a win against her in a long time, but the great thing is that I'm really setting myself up in a position where I can try to change that around. I thought I really well against her in Miami for the first set and a half. Obviously that's not enough, but the goal is to keep that level for the whole match this time and open up my chances, take my opportunities. It's been a while since we played on a clay court, too, and every match is different."

    On Friday at Madrid, Spain, in the quarterfinals of the Mutua Madrid Open, the 2013 champion at Brisbane, Miami and Charleston, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-3, 0-6, 7-5 (Serena is shown after match point).

    Serena said: "I obviously didn't do much in the second set, which gave [Anabel] a lot of confidence to play better. And then I thought she played really well after that in the third.
    "I definitely want to cut back on my unforced errors. I had a lot of them today. Also I went for a lot more today than I have been in my past few matches. So I think I'm going to go back to the way I have been playing and being more calm and not making as many unforced errors as I did out there today." WTA story

    The 2nd set bagel was only the 7th Serena has eaten in her career; the last time she failed to win a game in a set was versus her sister Venus at the 2008 WTA Championships.

    Anabel said: "As the second set was going on I was thinking, 'It might happen.' I was wondering how many sets Serena has lost at love. I don't think it's many. It's true she let her level drop a little bit in the second set, but I had to win it, too, and I did. And there it will stay for history.
    "And then I was also two points from winning at 5-4 in the third set. But she did an ace, and I couldn't do anything. It's a pity I lost today, but she's the #1 in the world because of those things."

    Serena is now 26-1 on clay courts since the start of last season.

    In the Madrid semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play the 2012 champ at Barcelona, 25 year old #7 (career high: #6) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Serena leads Sara 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals of the US Open, when Serena, on her way to the title, defeated Sara 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Friday in Spain, the 2013 champion at Indian Wells (and 2012 champ at Stuttgart. Roland Garros and Rome), 26 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I faced a really good clay court player today. A lot of [Kaia's] success has come on clay. I faced her at the French Open last year, where she had really good wins, so I know that she's capable. I was just really determined today, and I'm happy I was able to win with that type of scoreline."

    It was Maria's 20th consecutive clay court victory.

    In the Madrid semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play the 2011 champion at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 16th seeded #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI).

    Maria leads Ana 6-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was two weeks ago on red clay in the quarterfinals at Stuttgart, when Maria, on her way to the title, defeated Ana 7-5, 4-6, 6-4.

    If Maria progresses one more round than Serena at this tourney, she will retake the #1 position in next week's WTA singles rankings.

    On Thursday at Madrid, Spain, in the 3rd round of the Mutua Madrid Open, the 2013 champion at Brisbane, Miami and Charleston, 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena is now 25-1 on clay courts since the start of last season.

    Serena said: "I just felt really relaxed today. I was just taking my time. I think the match was okay. I haven't had a chance to talk about it with my team yet, but I will. I'm a perfectionist. I always look for things I can try and do better. When we get together I'll see what I can do better." WTA story

    In the Madrid quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2011 champion at Estoril and Palermo, 30 year old #64 (career high: #16) Anabel Medina Garrigues from Valencia, Spain.

    Serena and Anabel have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 3rd round at Rome, when Serena defeated Anabel 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Thursday in Spain, the 2013 champion at Indian Wells (and 2012 champ at Stuttgart. Roland Garros and Rome), 26 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    It was Maria's 19th consecutive clay court victory.

    Maria said: "[Sabine is] the kind of opponent that plays extremely well against top players. You can see that from her results, and she beat me last year at Wimbledon. This was our first meeting on clay, so a little different, but overall it was about keeping my intensity as much as I could. Maybe you're not going to play with intensity every point, but the more you do, the better chance you have of winning."

    In the Madrid quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will play the 2012 champion at Estoril and Brisbane, 27 year old #40 (career high: #16) Kaia Kanepi from Haapsalu, Estonia.

    Maria and Kaia have met only once before, last year on red clay in the quarterfinals of the French Open, when Maria, on her way to the title, defeated Kaia 6-2, 6-3.

    If Maria progresses one more round than Serena at this tourney, she will retake the #1 position in next week's WTA singles rankings.

    On Wednesday at Madrid, Spain, in the 3rd round of the Mutua Madrid Open, the 2011 champion at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 16th seeded #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 5-7, 6-2, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    Ana struck 10 aces, but with 10 double faults, while scoring on 8 of the 14 break points she reached against Laura and totaling 105 points in the match. Laura hit 4 aces, with 11 DFs (including one on match point) while converting 7 of her 14 break points against Ana and totaling 101 points.

    In the Madrid quarterfinals on Friday, Ana will play the 2012 Copenhagen and Paris indoor champion, 25 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany.

    Ana leads Angelique 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last month on red clay in Fed Cup play at Stuttgart, when Ana defeated Angelique 7-5, 7-5.

    Also on Wednesday in Spain, in a 2nd round match, defeated 1-6, 6-2, 6-3 (Ekaterina is shown after match point).

    Ekaterina said: "[Victoria and I] played many times before and I didn't win so much. I'm not that comfortable against her game. It was a really tough first set for me. When I came out I wasn't playing as well as I wanted to, then I got a little bit angry and it was really tough to change my game and my mentality.

    "But coming into Madrid I was feeling good... I really enjoy these clay courts because it's a little bit faster here. I just tried to move her around more in the second and third sets and it worked." WTA story

    Victoria was 18-0 this year going into the match, but had been sidelined since March by an ankle injury.

    Victoria said: "I have to give Ekaterina credit - she played really well," Azarenka said. "I felt like I had a lot of chances; I just didn't take them. I put myself down a little bit. Hey, I didn't play for a long time. I haven't lost a match for a long time. But this happens - it was going to happen sooner or later anyway. I just want to do better in the next tournament and kind of pick it up."

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Katya will play
    Marion leads Ekaterina 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round at the Australian Open, when Ekaterina defeated Marion 6(7)-7, 6-3, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Madrid, Spain, in the 2nd round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I made a lot of errors, but her game kind of forces you to make errors. I feel it went well. It was a good match for me, a really good clay court tennis match for me.
    "Seeing as I have a few more tournaments coming up on clay, it was perfect to play a match like this, so I know that if I face another opponent like that I'll have that experience and I'll know how to play against them." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday in Spain, the 2011 champion at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 16th seeded #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday (starting at 9:30pm Madrid time, or later), Ana will play the 2008 Wimbledon juniors champ, 19 year old #41 (career high: #38) Laura Robson from London, England.

    Ana and Laura have met only once before, in 2011 on a hardcourt in the 2nd round at Tokyo, when Ana defeated Laura 7-5, 6-4.

    On Monday at Madrid, Spain, in the 2nd round of the Mutua Madrid Open, the 2008 Wimbledon juniors champ, 19 year old #41 (career high: #38) Laura Robson from London, England, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (Laura is shown after match point).

    It was Laura's first career win over a top 5 player. Laura said: "A very exciting day for me. I'd had enough of losing."

    In the 3rd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Laura will play the winner of Tuesday's match between the 2011 champion at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 16th seeded #16 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), and the 2011 champion at Guangzhou, 29 year old qualifier #61 (career high: #37) Chanelle Scheepers from Harrismith, South Africa.

    Also on Monday in Spain, in a 1st round match, defeated 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria was down a break in the 1st set. Maria said: "I played an opponent who has done fairly well on this surface in her career and has a couple of titles. [Alexandra] had quite a big injury last year, but I know she's capable of playing really good clay court tennis, and I expected that from her. Our last match was pretty tough, too... I was really happy I got that break back and was able to win in two sets." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday (starting at 9:30pm Madrid time, or later), Maria will play
    Maria leads Christina 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Rome, when Maria, on her way to the title, defeated Christina 7-5, 7-5.

    On Sunday at Madrid, Spain, in the 1st round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Madison will play
    Madison and Anabel have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Saturday in Spain, defeated 7-6(5), 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "Yulia and I train sometimes at the same facility, the Mouratoglou Academy in France. I see her around a lot, and see her working really hard. Honestly, I obviously have to, and want to, play better as each match goes on here. I felt a little sluggish out there today, but I'm happy I won." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday or Wednesday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Lourdes 2-0 in career matches.

    They have not met since 2007, when, on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round of The Championships at Wimbledon, Serena defeated Lourdes 7-5, 6-0. They have never before met on clay, which is Lourdes' preferred surface.

    On Saturday at Madrid, Spain, in the 1st round of the Mutua Madrid Open, defeated 7-5, 7-6(8) (Laura is shown in a photo op after she and Lisa Raymond reached the doubles final at Miami this year).

    In the 2nd round on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, Laura will play the winner of Sunday's match between and
    Also on Saturday in Spain, the 2012 champion at Bad Gastein, 23 year old #33 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, defeated 7-5, 7-6(8) (Alize is shown while defeating Lauren Davis in the 3rd round at Miami this year).

    In the 2nd round on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, Alize will play the winner of Sunday's match between or
    On Friday at Oeiras, in the semifinals of the Portugal Open, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Carla said: "[Kaia] started so strong today and I was a little bit nervous, but after the first few games I changed a few things and played well the rest of the match. I was really concentrated on returning well because she serves so well, and I also had some really good points on my serve. I was aggressive and very focused in the most important points. I'm happy to be in the final again." WTA story

    Also on Friday in Portugal, defeated 0-6, 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Anastasia said: "I don't like to complain or find excuses, but I started the match really slowly today because I didn't feel like I had enough time to recover from yesterday's match. It was almost three hours yesterday and it was such an early start today - it was very hard to recover for this one... the last two sets were good and I won the match, so there are positives." WTA story

    Anastasia will play Carla in the Portugal Open final on Saturday.

    Anastasia leads Carla 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Cincinnati, when Anastasia defeated Carla 6-4, 6-0.

    Anastasia is 4-2 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 17-9 singles match record in 2013.

    Carla is 0-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 19-12 singles match record for the season.

    On Thursday at Oeiras, in the quarterfinals of the Portugal Open, the 2012 champion at Estoril and Brisbane, 27 year old #40 (career high: #16) Kaia Kanepi from Haapsalu, Estonia, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (Kaia is shown during her 2nd round win on Wednesday).

    Kaia said: "I was pretty happy with the way I played today. It was windy but I stayed aggressive and served well. I felt very comfortable serving. And I liked my movement, too. My Achilles injury isn't really affecting my movement. It doesn't bother me in practice or matches, maybe just after some matches, but then I ice it a lot. It's already better than it was last week in Morocco, even. I think my movement is actually better than before the injury. Today was a good win." WTA story

    In the Portugal Open semifinals on Friday, Kaia will play a quarterfinalist at Melbourne in 2009 and at Roland Garros in 2008, 24 year old 4th seeded #23 (career-high: #19) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Kaia leads Carla 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on the same red clay in the final at Estoril (this year relabeled as Oeiras), when Kaia defeated Carla 3-6, 7-6(6), 6-4.

    Also on Thursday in Portugal, the 2013 Monterrey champion, 21 year old 3rd seeded #19 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia, defeated her compatriot, 6-3, 6(3)-7, 7-6(3) (photo shown).

    Anastasia said: "There was a bit of drama in that match but I think it was a really good quality match from both of us. I started really well. For a set and a half it was really good. But then Elena was fighting for every point and played amazingly, so credit to her. It was a really tough one and I'm really happy I managed to pull through in the end because I was down in the third set." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Anastasia will play 27 year old #52 (career high: #46) Romina Oprandi from Bern, Switzerland.

    Anastasia and Romina have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Wednesday at Oeiras, in the 2nd round of the Portugal Open, the 2013 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 26 year old 7th seeded #29 (career high: #22) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (Elena is shown during her 1st round win on Monday).

    Elena tweeted: "Tough win today, had a lots of slices from Moni, will see them probably in my dream tonight. Happy to be in the quarters here @PortugalOpen." Elena Vesnina at Twitter

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Elena will play her compatriot, the 2013 Monterrey champion, 21 year old 3rd seeded #19 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia.

    Anastasia leads Elena 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on a hardcourt in the final at Istanbul, when Anastasia defeated Elena 5-7, 7-5, 6-4.

    Also on Wednesday in Portugal, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (Monica is shown while playing Angelique Kerber in the 2nd round at Brisbane this year).

    Monica lost in the final round of qualifying, but was placed in the main draw as a "lucky loser" after Roberta Vinci withdrew due to a shoulder injury. The win put Monica into her first WTA quarterfinal, and will put her into the WTA top 100 for the first time in her career.

    Monica defeated #30 Julia Goerges in the 1st round. Monica said: "I don't want to stop here, I want to keep going. I've had a few heartbreaking losses this year to Kerber and Venus, and to beat Goerges and Schiavone here is just amazing. Those losses taught me how to maintain a lead when I'm playing a top player. I've done it twice in a row now so I can see I'm improving." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Monica will play a quarterfinalist at Melbourne in 2009 and at Roland Garros in 2008, 24 year old #23 (career-high: #19) Carla Suarez Navarro from Barcelona, Spain.

    Monica and Carla have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Tuesday at Oeiras, in the 1st round of the Portugal Open, defeated 6-0, 1-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Shuai said: "After Miami my shoulder wasn't feeling so good so I actually went back to China, got treatment in Beijing and trained in Tianjin before coming to Europe. But they don't have many clay courts in China, so I practiced on hardcourts.
    "I had three or four days on clay courts in Stuttgart, so I've only really been playing on clay for a week and a half. So I'm really happy to beat such a good player today. In the end both of us were playing very well." WTA story

    Marion said: "The first match on clay is always tough for me and obviously at the beginning I had a lot of trouble finding my game and my feet on the court," Bartoli said. "I wasn't feeling comfortable and she was playing extremely well, as well. I just tried my hardest on the court and was able to play some good shots in the second set. I felt like the third set was really close and we both started to play quite well...
    "It was a very difficult draw for me, but I think it's better for me to have those kinds of matches early in the clay court season, and just try to keep improving for the big tournaments coming up."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Shuai will play
    Shuai and Romina have met only once before, in 2007 on a hardcourt in the 2nd round at Pattaya City, when Shuai defeated Romina 6(7)-7, 6-1, 6-3.

    Also on Tuesday in Portugal, (younger sister of WTA #4 Agnieszka Radwanska) defeated 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 (Urszula is shown while defeating Sloane Stephens this year in the 2nd round at Indian Wells).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Urszula will play
    Ayumi leads Urszula 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Stanford, when Ayumi defeated Urszula 4-6, 7-5, 6-1.

    On Monday at Oeiras, in the 1st round of the Portugal Open, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    High winds affected play. Elena said: "It was difficult to play today with the tough conditions, but we were practicing in the wind the last few days so I was ready for it...
    "[Maria Joao is] a very talented player. I hadn't played her before... it was difficult in the beginning because I was trying to figure out what was working and what wasn't. She has a very good forehand. When she has time to set up she feels it really well, and she can definitely give lots of problems to her opponents with that forehand." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Elena will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday in Portugal, 23 year old #43 (career high: #40) Ayumi Morita from Ota City, Japan, defeated 6-2, 7-5 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ayumi will play the winner of Tuesday's match between the 2012 champion at San Diego, 23 year old 2nd seeded #15 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, and
Stuttgart:

#18 Jelena Jankovic & #128 Andrea Petkovic
5'9½" 130lb RH 2H-BH     5' 11" 152lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Stuttgart, in the semifinals of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, defeated 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The match, Maria's third consecutive three-setter, lasted two hours and eight minutes. Maria fired 4 aces, but also struck 6 double faults, while scoring on 5 of the 10 break points she reached against Angelique and totaling 91 points in the match. Angie hit 5 aces, with 3 DFs, while converting all of the 4 break points she held against Maria, and totaling 89 points.

    Maria said: "[Angelique] plays pretty well off both sides, the forehand and backhand, but I think she does much better when she has the time to create angles or change directions, just like any other player. I lost momentum in the second set because I wasn't being as aggressive or stepping in as much, just not having as much on my ball as I did in the first set. So she was able to open up the court. My level certainly dropped in the second, but I'm really happy with the way I fought through it in the third. I'm really happy I was able to come through in this match. I did my job out there." WTA story

    Also on Saturday at Stuttgart, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria will play Na in the Stuttgart final on Sunday. The winner will receive not only €100,806 in prize money (about $131,262 US), but also a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet worth over $100,000.

    Maria leads Na 8-5 in career matches. Their most recent meetina was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the semifinals of the Australian Open, when Na defeated Maria 6-2, 6-2.

    Maria leads Na 2-1 in prior matches on clay; their most recent dirtcourt encounter was last year in the final at Rome, when Maria defeated Na 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(5).

    4-time Grand Slam champion Maria is 28-20 in previous WTA singles finals. Maria has a 22-3 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Serena Williams (twice) and Na.

    2011 French Open champion Na is 7-9 in previous WTA singles finals. Na has a 20-3 singles match record this year, losing only to Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka, and Agnieszka Radwanska.

    On Sunday in Marrakech, Morocco, in the final of the Grand Prix SAR La Princesse Lalla Meryem, will play
    Francesca leads Lourdes 3-1 in career matches, and 2-1 on clay courts. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Laykold hardcourt in the 3rd round at Miami, when Francesca defeated Lourdes 6-4, 7-6(2).

    2010 Roland Garros champ Francesca is 5-11 in previous WTA singles finals. Francesca has a 9-9 singles match record this season.

    Lourdes is 2-6 in previous WTA singles finals. Lourdes has a 10-9 singles match record for the year.

    On Friday at Stuttgart, in the quarterfinals of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the 2013 champion at Indian Wells (and 2012 champ at Stuttgart. Roland Garros and Rome), 26 year old top seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 7-5, 4-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    The match lasted two hours and sixteen minutes. Maria fired 7 aces, but also struck 6 double faults, while scoring on 6 of the 9 break points she reached against Ana and totaling 94 points in the match. Ana hit 3 aces, with 7 DFs, while converting 5 of the 7 break points she held against Maria, and totaling 88 points.

    In the Stuttgart semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play
    Maria leads Angelique 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent complete match was their only previous meeting on clay, last year in the semifinals at Rome, when Maria defeated Angelique 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Friday at Stuttgart, this year's champion at Shenzhen (and the 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 2nd seeded #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (Na is shown during her 2nd round win on Thursday).

    In the Stuttgart semifinals on Saturday, Na will play the 2011 Hobart finalist, 28 year old qualifier #104 (career high: #30) Bethanie Mattek-Sands from Phoenix, Arizona.

    Na and Bethanie have met only once before, in 2011 on red clay in the quarterfinals at Madrid, when Na defeated Bethanie 6-4, 3-6, 6-4.

    On Thursday at Stuttgart, in the 2nd round of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, the 2013 champion at Indian Wells (and 2012 champ at Stuttgart. Roland Garros and Rome), 26 year old top seeded #2 (and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-4, 6(3)-7, 6-3 (photo shown).

    The match lasted three hours and nine minutes. Maria fired 8 aces, but also struck 8 double faults, while scoring on only 5 of the 19 break points she reached against Lucie and totaling 127 points in the match. Lucie hit 6 aces, with 5 DFs, while converting only 3 of the 10 break points she held against Maria, and totaling 121 points.

    Also on Thursday at Stuttgart, the 2011 champion at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old #13 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-4, 6-3 (Ana is shown during her 1st round win over Andrea Petkovic).

    Ana scored on 5 of the 10 break points she reached against Nadia; Nadia converted 3 of her 6 break points against Ana.

    Ana will play Maria in the Stuttgart quarterfinals on Friday.

    Maria leads Ana 5-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 3rd round at Rome, when Maria, on her way to the title, defeated Ana 7-6(4), 6-3. Their only other meeting on clay was in 2007 (prior to the dawn of the "Claypova" era) in the semifinals at Roland Garros, when Ana defeated Maria 6-2, 6-1.

6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Jelena will play
    JJ leads Sabine 3-0 in career matches. All of their encounters were three setters; all in 2009. Their only prior meeting on clay was in the 2nd round in Stuttgart that year, when Jelena defeated Sabine 7-5, 5-7, 6-3.

    Also on Wednesday at Stuttgart, defeated 7-5, 6(0)-7, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Petra will play
    Petra and Julia are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early last year in Fed Cup play on an indoor DecoColor hardcourt at Stuttgart, when Petra defeated Julia 3-6, 6-3, 10-8.

    On Tuesday at Stuttgart, prior to the start of main draw play in the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, paid a visit to the Porsche Museum (photo shown), where she signed a 3-year endorsement contract to represent the sports car manufacturer. Terms of the agreement were not announced, but Maria's previous car contract, with Land Rover, was said to pay $1 million a year.

    Also on Monday at Stuttgart, visited with another fine German product (photo shown).

    Main draw play at Stuttgart begins on Tuesday, when Andrea will play Jelena's compatriot,
    Jelena will play in the 1st round on Wednesday.

    2012 tourney champion Maria has a 1st round bye, and will face either #25 Lucie Safarova or #28 Mona Barthel in the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday.

Delray Beach:

#54 Sofia Arvidsson
5'9¼" 152½lb RH 2H-BH Moscow:

#24 Ekaterina Makarova & #29 Elena Vesnina
ranked #6 & #7 at doubles     On Sunday at Moscow, in the fourth "rubber" of the 2013 Fed Cup semifinal "tie" between Slovakia and Russia, defeated 6-3, 4-6, 6-4.

    The Russkis had trailed 0-2 after Saturday's matches. Ekaterina's win leveled the score at 2-2. Earlier on Saturday, Ekaterina's teammate, defeated 7-5, 6-1.

    In the decisive doubles match, Ekaterina, partnered with defeated Daniela and Dominika 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 (Ekaterina and Elena are shown after match point).

    It was the first time ever that a team has come back to win after trailing 0-2 in a Fed Cup semifinal.

    Elena said: "[Ekaterina is] amazing. We were joking that she's like a soldier. She has a bleeding knee and she won such an amazing match—one of the most emotional matches she has won. And then in the doubles, she was feeling tired, but she's a great fighter." ITF story

    Russia will face either Italy or the Czech Republic in November's Fed Cup final.

    Meanwhile in Palermo, in the third "rubber" of the 2013 Fed Cup semifinal "tie" between Czech Republic (the 2012 Fed Cup champions) and Italy, defeated 2-6, 6-2, 6-0.

    Play in Palermo was delayed by rain, and the fourth and fifth matches were postponed until Monday, with Italy leading Czech Republic 2-1.

    At Delray Beach, Florida, on Sunday, in the Fed Cup World Group Playoffs, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (Serena is shown while defeating Johanna Larsson on Saturday).

    Serena's victory gave the US a 1-0 lead over the Swedes. In the fourth match, #21 Venus Williams defeated #66 Johanna Larsson 6-3, 7-5, clinching the win for the Americans, SWE 1, USA 3.

    Defeating Sweden put the United States in the World Group next year, playing for the 2014 Fed Cup; the Swedes will be relegated to World Group II, playing to get into the 2015 World Group.

    On Saturday in Moscow, in the second "rubber" of the 2013 Fed Cup semifinal "tie" between Slovakia and Russia, defeated the 2013 champion at Pattaya City, 26 year old #13 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia, 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Daniela's win gave the Slovaks a somewhat surprising and possibly overwhelming 2-0 lead over the Russkis. Earlier on Saturday, Dani's teammate, the 2012 champion at San Diego, 23 year old #15 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, defeated 5-7, 6-1, 6-4.

    Daniela said: "Even though I am the one on the court, we are playing as a team, and everyone on the bench is playing the match as well. We have an unbelievable captain, and it's just a pleasure to be playing." ITF story

    Slovakia now needs to win only one of Sunday's three matches to take a place in November's Fed Cup final.

    Meanwhile in Palermo, in the second "rubber" of the 2013 Fed Cup semifinal "tie" between Czech Republic (the 2012 Fed Cup champions) and Italy, again defeated her opponent in the Katowice final six days ago, the 2013 champion at Dubai, 23 year old #8 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, 6-4, 6-1.

    Roberta's win gave the Italians a likely insountable 2-0 lead over the Czechs. Earlier on Saturday, Roberta's teammate, the 2012 champ at Barcelona, 25 year old #7 (career high: #6) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy, defeated 6-4, 6-2. ITF story

    Italy also needs only one win in Sunday's three matches to reach November's Fed Cup final. And if they should lose both singles, Vinci and Errani would likely play again in the deciding double rubber—they are ranked #1 and #2 in the world at doubles.

    At Delray Beach, Florida, on Saturday, in the Fed Cup World Group Playoffs, the 2012 champion at Memphis, 29 year old #54 (career high: #29) Sofia Arvidsson from Halmstad, Sweden, defeated 6-4, 4-6, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Sofia's victory gave the Swedes a 1-0 lead over the USA. In Saturday's second rubber, #1 Serena Williams defeated #66 Johanna Larsson 6-2, 6-2, leveling the score at SWE 1, USA 1. This match was delayed by rain until Saturday evening. There is a 60% chance of more thunderstorms at Delray Beach on Sunday.

    The winners of the Sweden vs USA "tie" will be in the World Group next year, playing for the 2014 Fed Cup; the losers will be relegated to World Group II, playing to get into the 2015 World Group.

Indian Wells (file, March 10, 2012):

#58 Lourdes Dominguez Lino
5' 4" 133lb RH 2H-BH Flushing Meadows (file, August 30, 2010):

#174 Maria Elena Camerin
5' 4½" 123½lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Katowice, Poland, in the semifinals of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated 6-1, 6-0 (Roberta is shown hitting balls to the crowd after the match).

    Roberta won her quarterfinal by the same score, and so has won 24 of 26 games in those two matches. Roberta said: "I played some good tennis today. It was a good match. It was like yesterday. I'm so happy about my game today and I'm excited to be playing in the finals now." WTA story

    Annika was playing in her first WTA semifinal. Annika said: "It was a great tournament for me here in Katowice... The match was not so good for me today. Roberta played very well from the beginning on and had really good answers. But of course it's a different level playing against a Top 20 player, and I will just take this experience, learn from it and look forward to the next."

    Also on Saturday at Katowice, defeated 6-0, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Petra scored on 6 of the 14 break points she reached against Alexandra, and totaled 74 points in the match. Alexandra converted only 2 of the 5 break points she held against Petra, while totaling 56 points.

    Petra will play Roberta in the Katowice final on Sunday. They have met only once before, in 2011 on a chlorophyll court in the 3rd round of The Championships at Wimbledon, when Petra, on her way to her biggest title, defeated Roberta 6-3, 6-3.

    2011 Wimbledon champion Petra is 10-2 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 20-7 singles match record in 2013.

    Current WTA doubles #1 Roberta is 7-1 in previous WTA singles finals. She has a 18-9 singles match record this year.

    On Friday at Katowice, Poland, in the quarterfinals of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, the 2012 Roland Garros juniors champion, 19 year old #74 (career high: #65) Annika Beck from Giessen, Germany, reached her first WTA semifinal by defeating qualifier #174 (career high: #41) Maria Elena Camerin from Brescia, Italy, 7-6(1), 6-0 (Annika is shown during her post match press interview).

    Annika trailed 1-5 in the 1st set. Annika said: "When I was down today I just had to stay cool, play more rallies and let her do the work, and forget I was playing for the semifinals of a WTA tournament!. I tried to keep that out of my mind and it worked out. And I didn't expect to reach the semifinals here at the beginning of the week because everyone here is such a good player—so many top 100. I'm very happy to reach the semis." WTA story

    In the Katowice semifinals on Saturday, Annika will play
    Roberta defeated #80 Karolina Pliskova on Friday. Annika and Roberta have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Friday at Katowice, the 2013 champion at Dubai, 23 year old top seeded #8 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "I think today I played my best match here. It was a special feeling to play so well and feel so comfortable on the court. And more importantly I played well on the important points, which was good because she serving so well. I really had to wait for the right moments to break her serve." WTA story

    In the Katowice semifinals on Saturday, Petra will play
    Alexandra defeated #121 Shahar Peer on Friday. Petra and Alexandra will also be playing each other in pro singles for the first time.

    On Thursday at Katowice, Poland, in the 2nd round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, the 2012 champ at Dallas, 30 year old 2nd seeded #13 (career high: #13) Roberta Vinci from Taranto, Italy, defeated 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Roberta said: "I started slow. When I lost the first set I decided to play more aggressive and go up to the net more. I definitely played better tennis at the end, more consistent and more focused too." WTA story

    In the Katowice quarterfinals on Friday, Roberta will play
    Karolina defeated 6th seeded #38 Kaia Kanepi on Wednesday. Roberta and Karolina have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Thursday at Katowice, the 2009 champ at Guangzhou & Tashkent, 25 year old #121 (career high #11) Shahar Peer from Maccabim, Israel, defeated 38 year old qualifier #213 Jill Craybas from East Greenwich, Rhode Island, 6-1, 6-3 (Shahar is shown while defeating Alexandra Panova in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    The win put Shahar into her 45th WTA quarterfinal, and her first since January, 2012.

    Shahar said: "First of all I'm really happy because every match I'm playing much, much better. From the first round of qualies to first round of main draw was already much better, and today I played well the whole match, so I'm happy about my performance.
    "Jill and I both came from the qualifying so we both had a lot of matches. She's a good player with a lot of experience, and I lost to her a few years ago, so at least this time I won against her."

    In the Katowice quarterfinals on Friday, Shahar will play 22 year old qualifier #120 (career high: #74) Alexandra Cadantu from Bucharest, Romania.

    Alexandra defeated #50 Irina-Camelia Begu on Thursday. Shahar and Alexandra will also be playing each other in pro singles for the first time.

    On Wednesday at Katowice, Poland, in the 2nd round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated 5-7, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the Katowice quarterfinals on Friday, Annika will play
    Maria Elena defeated 3rd seeded #21 Klara Zakopalova on Wednesday.

    Annika and Maria Elena have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Wednesday at Katowice, in a 1st round match, defeated 6-4, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "It's always tough to play your first round at any tournament, and this time it's my first match of the year on clay. But I felt quite good on the clay here, I just need a few matches to really start feeling comfortable on it. I'm very happy I was able to win in two sets today." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Petra will play
    Mandy defeated #95 Vesna Dolonc on Tuesday.

    Petra and Mandy have met only once before, in 2011 on a hardcourt in the 1st round of the Tokyo Pan Pacific Open, when Petra defeated Mandy 6-2, 6-3.

    On Tuesday at Katowice, Poland, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated the 2012 champion at Bad Gastein, 23 year old 5th seeded #33 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, 6-3, 6-0 (Anna is shown playing Annika Beck in last year's juniors final at Roland Garros).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Anna will play
    Petra defeated #89 Elina Svitolina on Monday.

    Anna and Petra have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Monday at Katowice, defeated 7-6(2), 6-3 (Maria Elena is shown while defeating Sophie Ferguson in the 1st round of the 2010 US Open).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Maria Elena will play
    Klara defeated #105 Kristyna Pliskova on Monday.

    Klara and Maria Elena are tied at 2-2 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on a hardcourt in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at Athens, Maria Elena defeated Klara 6-3, 3-6, 6-1.

    On Monday at Katowice, Poland, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Katowice Open, defeated 7-6(2), 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Klara will play the winner of Tuesday's match between and
    Also on Monday at Katowice, defeated 5-7, 7-6(7), 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Lourdes will play
    Annika defeated wild card #267 (and former Polish #1) Marta Domachowska on Monday, 6-3, 7-5.

    Lourdes and Annika have never before met on the field of combat.

    In Mexico on Sunday, in the final of the Abierto Monterrey, the winner of the Saturday evening semifinal between and will play the 2011 & 2010 Monterrey champion, 21 year old 5th seeded #25 (career high: #13) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova from Moscow, Russia.

    Angelique and Anastasia have met only once before, early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Brisbane, when Anastasia defeated Angelique 7-6(3), 7-6(3).

    Maria and Anastasia are tied at 1-1 in career matches. They have not met since 2009, when, on red clay in the 2nd round at Bastad, Maria defeated Anastasia 6-2, 6-3.

    Angelique is 2-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 15-7 singles match record for the season.

    Maria is 6-6 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 19-5 singles match record in 2013.

    Anastasia is 3-2 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 11-7 singles match record this year.

    On Saturday at Daniel Island, Charleston, South Carolina, in the semifinals of the Family Circle Cup, defeated her sister, 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 6 aces, with 1 double fault, and totaled 52 points. Venus hit no aces, with 8 DFs, while totaling 30 points.

    About playing her sister, Serena said: "When I'm out there, I'm really just focused on the ball. I don't really focus on anything else, and I just try to go out there and do the best that I can.
    "Venus has had a great week, and honestly, if she hadn't had to play so many matches, it would have been a much tougher match. She'll never admit it, but I don't think she was 100%. But you will never get that out of her." WTA story

    About having (due to rain) to play three matches in two days, Venus said: "It would have been nicer to have more space between the matches, but it did not work out... I had a chance to win the match. We both had racquets. But I didn't take advantage of my chances. I was controlling the points, but then I would miss. I have to improve my game."

    Serena and Venus had not met since 2009. Serena now leads Venus 14-10 in career matches, and has won their last five meetings.

    Also on Saturday at Charleston, defeated 6-4, 6(6)-7, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Jelena scored on 6 of the 7 break points she reached against Stefanie, and totaled 105 points in the match. Stefanie converted only 3 of the 9 break points she held against Jelena, and totaled 90 points.

    Jelena will play Serena in the Family Circle Cup final on Sunday.

    Serena leads Jelena 5-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the 1st round of the London Olympic Games at Wimbledon, when Serena defeated Jelena 6-3, 6-1. Their only prior meeting on clay was in 2010, in the semifinals in Rome, when Jelena defeated Serena 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(5).

    15-time Grand Slam tourney champion Serena is 48-22 in WTA singles finals, and has a 18-2 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Sloane Stephens and Victoria Azarenka.

    Jelena is 13-16 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 17-5 singles match record this year. Jelena has won 14 of her last 16 matches.

or     On Friday at Daniel Island, Charleston, South Carolina, in the quarterfinals of the Family Circle Cup, the 2012 & 2008 Charleston champion (and last month's champ at Miami), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 8 aces, with 2 double faults, and totaled 66 points. Lucie hit 2 aces, with 1 DF, while totaling 43 points.

    It was the first time in her career that Serena has had (due to rain on Thursday) to play two singles matches in one day. Serena said: "It's actually not that bad to play two matches in one day. It's not ideal, but I play doubles all the time, and so I looked at it like, 'Okay, I play singles and I play with Venus in doubles the same day.' So really that's how I looked at it." WTA story

    In the Family Circle Cup semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play her sister, the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 32 year old 5th seeded #18 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Venus defeated wild card #77 Madison Keys in their quarterfinal on Friday.

    Serena leads Venus 13-10 in career matches, and has won their last four meetings. Their most recent encounter was in 2009 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Doha, Qatar, when Serena defeated Venus 5-7, 6-4, 7-6(4).

    Also on Friday at Charleston, the 2007 Charleston champion (and 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old 9th seeded #24 (last week, #18 this week, and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-2, 6-1 (Jelena is shown during her post-match press conference after being told that the win was her 500th career match victory).

    Jelena scored on 6 of the 9 break points she reached against Genie, and totaled 57 points in the match. Genie converted only one of the 3 break points she held against Jelena, and totaled 36 points.

    About her 500th win, Jelena said: "I actually didn't know that... I had no idea how many wins I had. I'm really bad with statistics. I don't follow any of that. But it's pretty nice. It's a great achievement to get my 500th win, and hopefully I can have many more... To have 500 wins you have to have a pretty long career and be pretty consistent."

    In the Family Circle Cup semifinals on Saturday, Jelena will play 23 year old #72 (last week, this week at a career high: #63) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland.

    Stefanie won the biggest victory of her career in the quarterfinals on Friday, defeating 2nd seeded #9 Caroline Wozniacki 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. Caro led 3-1 in the 3rd set, then Stefanie won the last games to take the match.

    Jelena and Stefanie have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Thursday at Daniel Island, Charleston, South Carolina, in the 3rd round of the Family Circle Cup, the 2007 Charleston champion (and 2013 champ at Bogota), 28 year old 9th seeded #24 (last week, #18 this week, and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 19 year old qualifier #147 (career high: #142) Jessica Pegula from Boca Raton, Florida, 6-0, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Jelena said: "The court was slow because it was quite humid out there and there [had been] a lot of rain. The balls were quite heavy and the overall play was quite heavy. But I got used to it, adjusted to it quite well, and I think I did a great job during the match today." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Jelena will play the 2012 Wimbledon juniors champ, 19 year old qualifier #123 (career high: #114) Eugenie Bouchard from Westmount, Canada.

    Genie defeated 3rd seeded Samantha Stosur on Thursday evening 6-1, 2-0 retired when Samantha could not continue due to a right calf injury she incurred at Indian Wells last month.

    Genie said: "I was really excited to get out there, and I felt like I played really well. It's unfortunate that [Samantha] had to retire. I thought she was serving pretty well, but we had some points where she wasn't running for the balls. I thought the court was pretty slippery out there so I kind of didn't run for some of the balls either, but she had like big tape on her leg, and I saw that. It's much better to win with a full match, but I'm excited to be here for [the quarterfinals] tomorrow."

    Jelena and Genie have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Thursday at Charleston, 23 year old #72 (career high: #63) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland, defeated 3-6, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Stefanie converted 6 of the 13 break points she reached against Julia (Julia: 3/7 BPs).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Stefanie will play
    Caro advanced by a walkover on Thursday when her 3rd round opponent, Andrea Petkovic, withdrew from the tourney. Petko's right knee, injured earlier in the year, has not yet fully recovered from that injury.

    Stefanie and Caroline will also be meeting for the first time in pro singles.

    Rain delayed the start of play at Charleston until the evening. The four matches scheduled for the top half of the draw—including those of top seeded Serena Williams and her sister Venus—were postponed to Friday.

    On Wednesday at Daniel Island, Charleston, South Carolina, in the 2nd round of the Family Circle Cup, the 2012 champ at Seoul, 22 year old 2nd seeded #9 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Caro will play
    Petko defeated #133 Vania King in the 2nd round on Wednesday.

    Caroline leads Andrea 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals of the US Open, when Caro defeated Petko 6-1, 7-6(5).

    Also on Wednesday at Charleston, the 2011 champ at Stuttgart, 24 year old 11th seeded #28 (career high: #16) Julia Goerges from Bad Oldesloe, Germany, defeated 6-2, 0-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Julia will play 23 year old #72 (career high: #63) Stefanie Voegele from Leuggern, Switzerland.

    Stefanie defeated #21 Carla Suarez Navarro in the 2nd round on Tuesday.

    Julia and Stefanie are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Copenhagen, when Julia defeated Stefanie 6-2, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Daniel Island, Charleston, South Carolina, in the 2nd round of the Family Circle Cup, defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena struck 9 aces, with no double faults; Camila fired 5 aces—but with 12 DFs.

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and qualifier #104 Mallory Burdette of the United States.

    Also on Tuesday at Charleston, in a 1st round match, defeated 6-4, 5-7, 6-4 (Jelena is shown while defeating Roberta Vinci in the quarterfinals at Miami last week).

    Jelena had lost to Melanie in their previous encounter, last year's final at Birmingham.

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Jelena will play
    Caroline defeated #61 Chanelle Scheepers in the 1st round on Monday.

    Jelena and Caroline have met only once before, last year on a hardcourt in the 1st round at Kuala Lumpur when JJ defeated Caroline 7-6(7), 4-6, 7-6(2).

    On Monday at Daniel Island, Charleston, South Carolina, in the 1st round of the Family Circle Cup, defeated 25 year old #106 (career high: #64) Tatjana Malek from Bad Saulgau, Germany, 6-4, 7-6(5) (Sorana is shown shortly after the match.)

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Sorana will play
    Sorana and Anabel are tied at 1-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last month on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Sori defeated Anabel 4-6, 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Monday at Charleston, defeated 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 (Varvara is shown while defeating Sara Errani in Fed Cup play earlier this year.)

    In the 2nd round on Tuesday, Varvara will play
    Varvara and Mathilde have met only once before, last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round of the US Open, when Varvara defeated Mathilde 6-3, 3-6, 7-5.
    On Thursday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the semifinals of the Sony Open, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photos shown).

    Maria struck 18 winners (including 2 aces), with only 11 unforced errors (including 3 double faults) while scoring on 6 of the 11 break points she reached against Jelena. Maria totaled 59 points in the match; Jelena scored only 29.

    Jelena may have been tired; her quarterfinal win took 2½ hours on Wednesday evening; Maria's quarterfinal lasted as long, but was 6½ hours earlier.

    Maria had struck 57 unforced errors (in 24 games) in her previous match. Maria said: "I thought I needed to step it up from my last match and play a little better. I was really happy with the way I focused." AP story

    In Thursday's late semifinal (9pm) at Key Biscayne, will play her opponent in last year's Wimbledon final,
    Serena leads Aga 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the semifinals of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Serena defeated Agnieszka 6-2, 6-1.

    Maria will play Serena or Agnieszka in the Sony Open final on Saturday.
    Serena leads Maria 11-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last month on a Plexipave hardcourt in the semifinals at Doha, Qatar, when Serena defeated Maria 6-3, 6-2.

    Maria leads Agnieszka 8-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Maria defeated Aga 5-7, 7-5, 7-5.

    4-time Grand Slam tourney champion Maria is 28-19 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 19-2 singles match record this season, losing only to Li Na and Serena Williams.

    15-time Grand Slam tourney champion Serena is 47-22 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 16-2 singles match record in 2013, losing only to Sloane Stephens and Victoria Azarenka.

    Agnieszka is 12-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 23-4 singles match record for the year, with losses to Li Na, Victoria Azarenka, Petra Kvitova, and Maria Kirilenko.

    On Wednesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the quartefinals of the Sony Open, the 2013 champion at Indian Wells (and 2012 champ at Roland Garros, Rome and Stuttgart), 25 year old 3rd seeded #3 (before the tourney, #2 this week, and former #1) Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 7-5, 7-5 (photo shown).

    The match was not pretty. Maria fired 45 winners (including 6 aces), but was plagued by 49 unforced errors (including 14 double faults). Sara struck 13 winners (no aces) with 25 UEs (4 DFs).

    Maria scored on 6 of the 17 break points she reached against Sara while totaling 106 points; Sara converted 4 of her 12 break points against Maria, while amassing 100 points.

    Maria said: "[Sara] really made me work for this match. I had to dig deep. So many opportunities, a few ups and downs. I'm definitely happy to get through another one." AP story

    In Wednesday's late quarterfinal at Key Biscayne the 2013 champion at Bogota, 28 year old 22nd seeded #23 (and former #1) Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (residence: Dubai, United Arab Emirates), defeated 6-4, 6(6)-7, 6-3.

    Jelena said: "In the first set I was down 2-0, and managed to come back and get the set. In the second set I was playing pretty well in a lot of games but was losing a lot of them, especially at the beginning when I went down 3-0. I managed to come back but in the tie-break [Roberta] played some really good points at the net. And in the third I was down again, 2-0, but thankfully I managed to get control in the end.
    "Her game is difficult. It's tough to get underneath the ball when you play her. It was a difficult match and not an easy match at all for me, but again I'm happy to win and make the semifinals." WTA story

    Maria will play Jelena in the Sony Open semifinals at 1pm on Thursday.

    Maria leads Jelena 6-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at Cincinnati, when Maria defeated Jelena 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-3.

    In Thursday's late semifinal (9pm) at Key Biscayne, the 5-time Miami champion (and 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champion), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, will play her opponent in last year's Wimbledon final, the 2013 champion at Sydney and Auckland, 23 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Serena leads Aga 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the semifinals of the WTA Championships, when Serena defeated Agnieszka 6-2, 6-1.

    On Tuesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the quartefinals of the Sony Open, the 5-time Miami champion (and 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champion), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-3, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    After winning the 1st set by a single break of serve, Serena took a 2-0 lead in the 2nd set. Then Na won the next 5 games. Serena then held serve, and broke Na as she was serving for the 2nd set. Serena won 79 points in the match and broke Na's serve 3 times; Na scored 69 point and broke Serena twice.

    Serena said: "[Na] plays so well - we always have such intense matches. I love it. She always improves, and that always keeps me motivated. I just had to get more consistent and hang in there." WTA story

    Na said: "I had chances but I didn't hold. She's the best player in the world, so if you don't take your chances, she will never give you a chance again.
    "But I still have to see it in a positive way. I played well here. I just have to continue to work with my team and get ready for the clay court season. I'm looking forward to the clay court season because I'm healthy and hitting the ball well."

    In Tuesday's late quarterfinal, at Key Biscayne the 2013 champion at Sydney and Auckland, 23 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.

    Serena will play Agnieszka in the Sony Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Serena leads Aga 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the semifinals of the WTA Championships, when Serena defeated Agnieszka 6-2, 6-1.

    On Monday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 4th round of the Sony Open, the 5-time Miami champion (and 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champion), 31 year old top seeded #1 Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated the 2012 champion at San Diego, 23 year old 13th seeded #14 (career high: #12) Dominika Cibulkova from Bratislava, Slovakia, 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena trailed 2-6, 1-4 in the 2nd set. Serena said: "I was playing a really good opponent and I was making so many unforced errors out there...

    "I just thought to myself, 'Well I've been down worse. It's nothing new. Just keep fighting.' I never give up. It doesn't matter whether it's in life or on the tennis court, I keep fighting. That's what I kept doing today." postmatch interview

    Domi also lost in the 4th round last year at Miami, to Victoria Azarenka, after leading 6-1, 5-2.

    In the 4th round on Monday, Serena will play this year's champion at Shenzhen (and the 2011 French Open champ), 31 year old 5th seeded #5 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Na defeated #95 Garbine Muguruza 7-6(6), 6-2 on Monday.

    Serena leads Na 6-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships, when Serena defeated Na 7-6(2), 6-3.

    Also on Monday at Key Biscayne, the 2013 champion at Sydney and Auckland, 23 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 4th round on Monday, Agnieszka will play 27 year old 30th seeded #31 (last week, this week at a career high: #28) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium.

    Agnieszka and Kirsten have met only once before, on a hardcourt in Fed Cup play in 2010, when Aga defeated Kirsten 6-2, 7-6(5).


    Roberta defeated #33 Alize Cornet 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 on Monday.

    Agnieszka leads Roberta 5-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was early this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Sydney, when Aga defeated Roberta 6-5, 7-5.

    On Sunday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 3rd round of the Sony Open, defeated 6-4, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "[Elena is] very capable of playing good tennis. Maybe her ranking is not where she wants it to be right now, but she's beaten me before. I think the last time we played in Beijing [2010, 1st rd, Elena won 7-6(3), 6-2]. I know what type of tennis she can produce.

    "In situations like this where it's tough and it's hot, it kind of levels out the game a little bit as well, with the windy conditions, because you have to be a bit more patient. That was really important today." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Monday, Maria will play
    Klara defeated #15 Maria Kirilenko 6-2, 7-6(4) on Sunday.

    Maria leads Klara 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last month on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, Qatar, when Maria defeated Klara 6-3, 6-3.

    Also on Sunday at Key Biscayne, defeated 7-6(6), 6-4 (photo shown).

    It was Jelena's best win (by rank) since she defeated then #5 Samantha Stosur in the quarterfinals at Dubai in February of last year.

    Jelena said: "It was a battle in the first set, but thankfully I was able to get that first set in the tie-breaker. The beginning was really tight, but once we got to the second set I was more comfortable, and I think [Nadia] was getting a little bit tired, and I took advantage of that. It was a very tough match." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Jelena will play
    Sorana defeated #6 Angelique Kerber 6-4, 6-0 on Sunday.

    Sorana leads Jelena 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Dallas, when Jelena defeated Sorana 6-2, 6-1.

    On Saturday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 3rd round of the Sony Open, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Last year at Miami Garbine also reached the 4th round, after defeating then #9 Vera Zvonareva in the 2nd round, in what was only Garbine's 2nd WTA main draw match of her career.

    In the 4th round on Monday, Garbine will play
    Garbine and Na have met only once before, last year on blue clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Na defeated Garbine 6-2, 6-4.

    Also on Saturday at Key Biscayne, defeated 0-6, 6-4, 7-6(1) (no photos of Ajla were posted today, so she is shown while playing Yaroslava Shvedova 3 years ago in the 1st round at Miami).

    Andrea was playing in only her second tournament since being sidelined by a knee injury early this year.

    Ajla said: "[Andrea] came out hitting the corners and it took me some time to get used to. We had a really long first game and I couldn't convert on the break points. It was a pretty slow start for me. In the second set I thought, 'If I'm going to lose, I want to lose the right way.' So I really tried to play better and get into the match more and I fought my way through the second set.

    "I had a really great start to the third set, going up 3-0, and I had so many chances to close the set out easier than it was, but it turned into a battle. I think we both played really well at the end." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Monday, Ajla will play 27 year old 30th seeded #31 (last week, this week at a career high: #28) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium.

    Ajla and Kirsten have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Friday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 2nd round of the Sony Open, defeated 6-1, 5-7, 7-6(7) (photo shown).

    Lauren, the highest ranked player to lose in the qualifying finals, replaced #2 Victoria Azarenka in the draw when Vika could not play due to an ankle injury.

    Lauren said: "I came here this morning with like no hope left that I was going to get in, but I just hoped and wished and prayed I would get in. I got a call at 10 o'clock saying I got in. I was just so happy. I didn't care if I won or lost, I was just so grateful for the opportunity to play in the tournament. I had never signed up to be a lucky loser. It's my first time..."

    "I had momentum at 6-1, 3-1, but I started thinking a bit too much and let [Madison] in the door a little bit. I just relied on my fighting instincts to pull me through. I'm just really happy I won today.
    "We kind of have opposite games. I'm a grinder and a good baseliner. She likes to keep the points shorter, big serve, big forehand. So my game plan was just to go out there and I guess exploit her backhand and hit down the line when she tries to run around the forehand, and keep balls in play." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Lauren will play the winner of Friday's rain-interrupted match between the 2012 champion at Bad Gastein, 23 year old 32nd seeded #33 (career high: #11) Alizé Cornet from Nice, France, and
    Also on Friday at Key Biscayne, defeated 2-6, 7-5, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Sorana will play
    Angie and Sori have met only once before, last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Hobart, Tasmania, when Angelique defeated Sorana 6-0, 3-6, 7-5.


    Also on Friday at Key Biscayne, defeated 6-1, (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Maria will play
    Maria leads Klara 3-2 in career matches, but Klara won their last two meetings. Their most recent encounter was last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Roland Garros, when Klara defeated Maria 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.

    On Thursday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 2nd round of the Sony Open, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Serena will play
    Serena and Ayumi have met only once before, earlier this year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 3rd round of this year's Australian Open, when Serena defeated Ayumi 6-1, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at Key Biscayne, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    It was Na's first match since she was injured during the final of this year's Australian Open.

    Na said: "I wasn't nervous before the match today, I was excited. For the last six or seven weeks I haven't played any tournaments so I was happy to win my first match after such a long time... My game was pretty good today, I followed the plan of what I should do. I just had to believe in myself that I could do it." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Na will play the winner of Thursday's match between and

    Daniela leads Sara 5-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last month on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Sara defeated Dani 7-5, 5-7, 6-2.

    On Wednesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 1st round of the Sony Open, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    It was Laura's first win since this year's Australian Open. She had lost her last three matches.

    Laura said: "I've been getting quite nervous in my matches, but today I managed to deal with that better and just grind out the win. Also by the end of the match there was this huge storm coming, so I basically tried to finish before it started. I'm really happy I was able to play through the nerves...
    "You know when you hear thunder and see huge rain drops falling on the court that you don't have that much time. About 30 seconds after we finished it started pouring. We were lucky to finish." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Laura will play
    Laura and Alize have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Wednesday at Key Biscayne, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Daniela will play
    Daniela leads Sara 5-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last month on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 2nd round at Doha, when Sara defeated Dani 7-5, 5-7, 6-2.

    On Tuesday at Key Biscayne, Miami, Florida, in the 1st round of the Sony Open, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Flavia will play
    Serena leads Flavia 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Rome, when Serena defeated Flavia 4-0 retired. Flavia could not continue that day due to a right wrist injury.

    That wrist injury kept Flavia offcourt for most of the remainder of last season. She had surgery, and did not return to play until February of this year.

    Also on Tuesday at Key Biscayne, defeated 1-6, 7-5, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Ayumi won after trailing 1-6, 1-4 in the 2nd set.

    Heather said: "[The first part of the match] I was playing really well, probably the best I've played this year, and I think I lost my concentration a bit, but that was enough for her to gain some confidence and step forward, and it kind of pushed me back and I started to play a lot worse...

    "This year I've been going a bit too long so I'm a bit burnt out. I've been thinking about it for a while now and I'm definitely going to take a break from tennis." BBC story

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Ayumi will play
    Yanina leads Ayumi 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 1st round at Doha, when Yanina defeated Ayumi 6-2, 6-1.

Indian Wells:

#85 Silvia Soler-Espinosa
5'7" 134lb RH 2H-BH Indian Wells:

#90 Ksenia Pervak
5'7" 132lb LH 2H-BH Indian Wells:

#12 Nadia Petrova
5'10¼" 143lb RH 2H-BH     On Friday at Indian Wells, in the semifinals of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Sharapova struck 29 winners with 17 unforced errors; Kirilenko hit 15 winners, with 22 UEs.

    Maria said: "[Kirilenko is] someone who has had a few comebacks in this tournament so I had to step it up in the second set... She's always a tough opponent. She's a grinder. She makes you work really hard on the court and gets a lot of balls back, and has a lot of variety too. I certainly don't want to give her time or any of those opportunities, because she's a really good player. And I think this was her best tournament yet." WTA story

    The win assured that Maria will move back up to #2 in Monday's WTA rankings; Victoria Azarenka, who withdrew from the tourney on Thursday due to an ankle injury, will drop to #3.

    Also on Friday at Indian Wells, defeated 2-6, 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Caroline said: "I knew I had to keep staying close to the baseline, mix it up a little bit, also play it high to her backhand sometimes and just wait for the right time to go and attack... It's a game of chess. It's a game of finding out where is the toughest for the opponent to get to the ball." WTA story

    Caroline will play Maria in the Indian Wells final on Sunday.

    Maria leads Caroline 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Laykold hardcourt in the semifinals at Miami, when Maria defeated Caro 4-6, 6-2, 6-4.

    Caroline said: "Maria is a great competitor and fights for every point. She plays very aggressively and tries to take every ball on the rise and plays very flat. It's going to be very tough."

    Maria said: "Caroline is dangerous when she has the opportunities to open up the court and runs you side to side."

    On Wednesday at Indian Wells, in the quarterfinals of the BNP Paribas Open, the 2012 IW finalist (and champion at Roland Garros, Rome and Stuttgart), 25 year old 3rd seeded #3 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated her opponent in last year's French Open final, 7-6(6), 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria trailed 3-5 in the 1st set, which lasted 82 minutes. Maria said: "This definitely wasn't my best match of the tournament. I started quite slowly today. But I'm happy I've given myself another opportunity to be in the semifinals here, one of the toughest stages of one of the toughest tournaments for us. I hope to go further again this year." WTA story

    Also on Wednesday at Indian Wells, the 2013 champion at Pattaya City (and 2008 champion at Estoril, Barcelona, and Seoul), 26 year old 13th seeded #15 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia, defeated 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "In the first set I was leading 4-2 and then suddenly she started to play unbelievable, a lot of winners. It seems when she's losing she's more relaxed. She can be very dangerous... I'm really happy I won this match. I had some problems with my knee during the first set, but was able to keep fighting and win." WTA story

    Maria Kirilenko will play Maria Sharapova in the BNPPO semifinals on Friday.

    Sharapova leads Kirilenko 4-2 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the semifinals of the London Olympic Games at Wimbledon, when Maria S defeated Maria K 6-2, 6-3.

    Sharapova said: "Last time we played was at the Olympics, which I won in two sets, but she always plays really well in this tournament. We had a really tough quarterfinal match at this tournament last year, so I'm expecting another tough one. I'll prepare and just go out on the court and do my best."

    In the Indian Wells quarterfinals on Thursday, was to play the 2011 Indian Wells champion (and 2012 champ at Seoul), 22 year old 8th seeded #10 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    However, Victoria withdrew due to a right ankle injury on Thursday afternoon, giving Caroline a walkover to the semifinals.

    In Thursday's other quarterfinal, the 2012 Copenhagen and Paris indoor champion, 25 year old 4th seeded #6 (career high: #5) Angelique Kerber from Kiel, Germany, was to play
    However, Samantha withdrew due to a right calf injury on Thursday morning, giving Angelique a walkover to the semifinals.

    Sam said: "I hurt my right calf muscle in the last game of my match against Mona Barthel when I was serving for the match... I think this is only the second time I've ever pulled out of a match in my career, and unfortunately there isn't anything I can do about it." tourney story

    Angelique Kerber will play Caroline Wozniacki in the Indian Wells semifinals on Friday.

    Angelique leads Caroline 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Beijing, when Angie defeated Caro 6-1, 2-6, 6-4.

    On Tuesday at Indian Wells, in the 4th round of the BNP Paribas Open, the 2012 IW finalist (and champion at Roland Garros, Rome and Stuttgart), 25 year old 3rd seeded #3 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 7-5, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Maria had 6 double faults in the 1st set. But she had only one in the 2nd set, and hit four aces in the last seven points of the match.

    Maria said: "The first set was so up and down. I knew I had to buckle down and start being more aggressive, stepping in on the returns and getting more first serves in.

    "[Lara] was a tough opponent today, but once I started playing more aggressively in the second set things went much better for me." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Maria will play her opponent in last year's French Open final, the 2012 champ at Barcelona, 25 year old 6th seeded #8 (career high: #6) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Maria leads Sara 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Maria defeated Sara 6-3, 6-2.

    Also on Tuesday at Indian Wells, defeated her compatriot, 6-2, 6-3 (Petra is shown while defeating Olga Govortsova on Friday).

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Petra will play the 2013 champion at Pattaya City (and 2008 champion at Estoril, Barcelona, and Seoul), 26 year old 13th seeded #15 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia.

    Petra and Maria are tied at 3-3 in career matches.. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final at New Haven, when Petra defeated Maria 7-6(9), 7-5.

    On Monday at Indian Wells, in the 3rd round of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 4th round on Tuesday, Nadia will play
    Caroline leads Nadia 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a hardcourt in the final of the Tournament of Champions at Sofia, when Nadia defeated Caro 6-2, 6-1.

    Also on Monday at Indian Wells, defeated the 2010 Auckland champ, 23 year old 30th seeded #33 (career high: #12) Yanina Wickmayer of Belgium (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), 6-1, 7-6(4) (photo shown).

    After winning the 1st set, Angelique trailed 1-4 in the 2nd. Angelique said: "My coach came to me and just told me to remember my game plan, which we had before the match. I just had to keep focusing on my game, playing point by point and believing in my game. It really helped me. I'm happy I could make it." WTA story

    In the 4th round on Tuesday, Angelique will play
    Angelique and Garbine have never before met on the field of combat.

    A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck the area on Monday morning, centered about 25 miles south of Palm Springs. There was no damage, but it gave folks a scare.


    Nadia leads Elena 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on red clay in the 1st round at Madrid, when Nadia defeated Elena 4-6, 6-2, 6-3.
    On Saturday at Indian Wells, in the 2nd round of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Madison struck 6 aces with only one double fault (Samantha: 1 ace, 1 DF), but reached only one break point against Sam in the match and failed to convert it (Samantha: 2/5 BP conversions).

    Samantha said: "Madison's got a big game. Obviously her forehand is massive and she's got a very big serve. She's got a pretty decent kick serve for a second serve, too, and handled a lot of my slice quite well sometimes. She's just got to put all the pieces together. She's only 18 years old, and I had lots of pieces like that when I was 18 and wasn't as together as probably what she is now. I think she's got a lot of potential. She has those big weapons that win those big matches." WTA story

    Madison said: "I think if I was returning better today, maybe I could have made the match a little bit tighter, but it's such a great learning experience. There are some things I need to work on now, especially my returns. So I'll go back, work on those, and, you know, move onto the next tournament."

    In the 3rd round on Monday, Samantha will play
    Samantha leads Shuai 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 1st round at Stuttgart, when Sam defeated Shuai 6-2, 6-2.

    Also on Saturday at Indian Wells, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (Julia is shown while defeating Johanna Larsson in the 2nd round at Auckland in January).

    In the 3rd round on Monday, Julia will play
    Surprisingly, Nadia and Julia have never before met in pro singles.

    On Friday at Indian Wells, in the 2nd round of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Maria has just returned from an injury, and cold weather affected play. Maria said: "I was out for four weeks. I got injured in Doha, withdrew from Dubai and didn't practice for 10 days. It's always difficult to start again after such a long time off. The injury is good now, though. And before this I was in Washington where it was freezing, and I practiced outside there, so I was used to these cold conditions. So it wasn't too much of an adjustment for me, really!" WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Maria will play Maria and Mallory have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Friday at Indian Wells, defeated 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 (Sori is shown while defeating Sloane Stephens in the 1st round at Dubai last month).

    After trailing 1-3 in the 2nd set, Sorana won 11 of the last 12 games in the match. Sorana said: "I had never beaten Anabel before, so it was a big win for me and I'm really happy. It was my first match here. The conditions were tough and I was down a set and 3-1, but I still won in the end. Overall I'm really happy."

    In the 3rd round on Sunday, Sorana will play
    Agnieszka leads Sorana 3-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on the same Plexipave hardcourts in the 2nd round at Indian Wells, when Aga defeated Sori 6-2, 6-4.

    Agnieszka said: "It's always a tough match against [Sorana], she can really hit the ball hard and she is a very powerful player, so I need to be focused from the beginning and try not to play too easy to the middle."

    On Thursday at Indian Wells, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Open, defeated 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Saturday, Kimiko will play
    Kimiko and Elena have met only once before, last year on a hardcourt in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at Poitiers, France, when Elena defeated Kimiko 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-3.

    Also on Thursday at Indian Wells, defeated 6(3)-7, 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Saturday, Alizé will play
    Caroline leads Alizé 4-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on an indoor hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Copenhagen, when Caro defeated Alizé 6-0, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at Indian Wells, in the 1st round of the BNP Paribas Open, demolished 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Ksenia will play
    Ksenia and Roberta have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Wednesday at Indian Wells, defeated 6(7)-7, 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Friday, Silvia will play her compatriot,
    Carla leads Silvia 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last week, on red clay, in the semifinals at Acapulco, when Carla defeated Silvia 6-2, 6-1.

Florianopolis:

#111 Olga Puchkova
5' 11" 135lb RH 2H-BH     On Saturday at Acapulco, in the final of the Abierto Mexicano, will play
    Sara leads Carla 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in January on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round of the Australian Open, when Carla defeated Sara 6-4, 6-4.

    Sara is 6-6 in previous WTA singles finals; she has a 17-7 singles match record in 2013. Carla is 0-3 in previous WTA singles finals; she has a 10-7 singles match record this season.

    On Sunday at Kuala Lumpur, in the final of the BMW Malaysian Open, will play
    Karolina and Bethanie have met only once before, last year on an indoor hardcourt in the 1st round at Linz, when Bethanie defeated Karolina 6-3, 7-6(4).

    Karolina is playing in her first WTA singles final; she has a 10-6 singles match record this year. Bethanie is 0-3 in previous WTA singles finals; she has a 10-5 singles match record in 2013.

    On Friday at Florianopolis, in the semifinals of the Brasil Tennis Cup, defeated 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Olga broke Venus's serve to take a 5-4 lead in the 3rd set, but then hit three double faults in the next game as Venus broke back. Then Olga broke Venus again, and this time served out the match.

    In the BTO final on Saturday, Olga will play
    Olga and Monica have never before met on the field of combat.

    Monica is 0-2 in previous WTA singles finals, she has a 13-5 singles match record this year. Olga is also 0-2 in previous WTA singles finals, she has a 9-6 singles match record this season.

    On Friday at Kuala Lumpur, in the quarterfinals of the BMW Malaysian Open, defeated 6(7)-7, 6-4, 6-1 (Ayumi is shown while defeating Ekaterina Makarova in Fed Cup play on February 9 in Moscow).

    Ayumi said: "[Luksika] was playing very well from the beginning, and I was too tight in the first set. In the second set, I tried to attack more and fight for every point, which helped me win the match." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Ayumi will play
    Ayumi and Karolina have met only once before, in 2011 on a hardcourt in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney at Taipei, Taiwan, when Ayumi defeated Karolina 6(7)-7, 6-1, 6-0.

    On Thursday at Kuala Lumpur, in the 2nd round of the BMW Malaysian Open, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (Su-Wei is shown at this year's Pattaya City player party with her sister Shu-Ying).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Su-Wei will play the 2011 Hobart finalist, 27 year old #197 (career high: #30) Bethanie Mattek-Sands from Phoenix, Arizona.

    Su-Wei and Bethanie have met only once before, in 2005 on a clay court in the semifinals of an ITF tourney at Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, when Bethanie defeated Su-Wei 6-3, 6-4.

    Also on Thursday at Kuala Lumpur, 22 year old 4th seeded #55 (career high: #40) Ayumi Morita from Ota City, Japan, defeated 26 years old yesterday qualifier #212 (career high: #200) Nudnida Luangnam of Thailand, 6-3, 6-1 (Ayumi is shown while defeating Ekaterina Makarova in Fed Cup play on February 9 in Moscow).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Ayumi will face 19 year old qualifier #146 (career high: #146) Luksika Kumkhum of Thailand.

    Ayumi and Luksika have never before met on the field of combat.

    On Wednesday in Florianopolis, in the 2nd round of the Brasil Tennis Cup, defeated 24 year old #93 (career high: #146) Beatriz Garcia Vidagany from Valencia, Spain, 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 (Magdalena is shown while defeating Kimiko Date-Krumm in the 1st round on Tuesday).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Magdalena will play the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 32 year old top seeded #21 (last week, #20 this week, and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Venus and Magda have met only once before, in 2009 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round of the US Open, when Venus defeated Magdalena 6-2, 7-5.

    Also on Wednesday at Florianopolis, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Kristina will face 30 year old #105 (career high: #37) Melinda Czink from Budapest, Hungary.

    Kristina and Melinda have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Budapest, when Melinda defeated Kristina 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.

    On Tuesday in Florianopolis, in the 1st round of the Brasil Tennis Cup, the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 32 year old #21 (last week, #20 this week, and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (Venus is shown while defeating Alize Cornet in the 2nd round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Venus will play
    Venus and Garbine have never before met on the field of combat.

    Meanwhile in Kuala Lumpur, in the 1st round of the BMW Malaysian Open, defeated the 2011 champion in Fes, 32 year old #161 (career high: #55) Alberta Brianti of Italy, 6-2, 6-3 (Misaki is shown while defeating Petra Martic in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Misaki will play
    Misaki and Karolina have met only once before, in 2010 on a clay court in the quarterfinals of an ITF tourney in Gifu, Japan, when Karolina defeated Misaki 6-4, 6-4.

Memphis:

#73 Marina Erakovic
5'9" 143lb RH 2H-BH     On Friday in Dubai, in the semifinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeated 6-3, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Petra said: "It was a great match. We are different players. [Caroline] tries to put the balls back, and I'm the person who is playing aggressively and going for the winners. So what happens in the match really depends on if I'm missing a lot or no, and I played well today." WTA story

    Caroline said: "[Petra] just went for every shot and hit it deep, and I came under pressure straightaway. I thought I served well, though. In the second set I think I had my chances, and I probably should have taken them but I didn't... She played a very good match out there. Petra's a player that when she's on fire, she's on fire, and she wins a lot of matches."

    Also on Friday in Dubai, defeated her doubles partner, 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Sara said: "I just tried to play my game, tried to be as solid as I could. It's tough because we know each other very well and know how each other plays, so I had to do what [Roberta] didn't think I would do. It's very difficult to play against someone who knows what you're going to do in every shot."

    Roberta said: "I had to play aggressive, but [Sara] missed probably two or three balls, and when you play against someone who doesn't miss any balls, it's tough to play long points every single point. She played better than me today. But for sure I'm happy I played an unbelievable tournament. This is my first semifinal here, and I won against two top 10s. I played a great tournament."

    Sara will play Petra in the Dubai final on Saturday.

    Petra leads Sara 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, when Petra defeated Sara 6-4, 6-4.

    Sara is 6-5 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 13-6 singles match record this season. Petra is 9-2 in previous WTA singles finals, and has an 11-5 singles match record this season.

    Petra said: "[Sara] has a good forehand with big spin and is quite fast on the backhand. She moves very well, too. She has had great results in the past and played quite well today, and she beat Petrova yesterday too. She's a very tough opponent. I think it will be a really tough match tomorrow."

    In Memphis, Tennessee on Saturday, in the final of the US National Indoor Tennis Championships, will play
    Sabine leads Marina 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was earlier this year on a hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Pattaya City, Thailand, when Sabine defeated Marina 5-7, 6-3, 6-2.

    Sabine is 3-3 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 10-3 singles match record this season. Marina is 0-2 in previous WTA singles finals, and has an 9-4 singles match record this season.

    February 21, 2013: Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka Facing Fines for Dubai Withdrawals

    On Thursday in Dubai, in the quarterfinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the 2011 tourney champ (and 2012 champion at Seoul), 22 year old 8th seeded #10 (and former #1) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 4-6, 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Caroline said: "It was disappointing to lose that first set after I had been up; I'm happy I turned it around. In the third set I was down 2-0 and it could have been 3-0, and all of a sudden it wasn't looking good, but I kept fighting and every game was close, and I'm happy I ended up winning it...

    "Usually girls have a first serve and a second serve, but Marion doesn't have a second serve, she has two first serves. Both serves are at least 150 or 160Ks [160kmph ~ 100mph]. So you just need to be on your toes. She steps in, she's in the court on your serves, as well. You feel the pressure. But you just need to be ready and know it's going to be coming fast at you." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Friday, Caroline will face the 2012 champ at Montreal and New Haven (and 2011 Wimbledon champ), 22 year old 6th seeded #8 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Caro and Petra are tied at 3-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Montreal, when Petra defeated Caroline 3-6, 6-2, 6-3.

    Also on Thursday in Dubai, the 2012 champ at Barcelona, 25 year old 5th seeded #7 (career high: #6) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy, defeated 6-4, 0-6, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Sara said: "The first two games of the second set were so long, the second set was very long even if it was 6-0. In the third set I just tried to get more aggressive and more concentrated. I tried to show her I wasn't tired. I just tried to recover and be positive and face these things."

    In the semifinals on Friday, Sara will play her doubles partner,
    Sara leads Roberta 4-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the semifinals at Acapulco, when Sara defeated Roberta 6-4, 6-1.

    February 21, 2013: Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka Facing Fines for Dubai Withdrawals

    On Wednesday in Dubai, in the 2nd round of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeated 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka said: "It's always tough playing someone you don't know, and also the first match of the week is always tricky. But even when I didn't play my best tennis today I was really fighting for every point, and I'm just happy I could come back in the first set and win it in two sets." WTA story

    Yulia said: "I take a lot of experience from this match. I think it's a big step in my career to play against a Top 5 player for the first time. I think it's great. I enjoyed the moment a lot and I'm quite happy with what I did on the court. We'll see if I can do better next time. We'll see how it will go."

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Agnieszka will play the 2012 champ at Montreal and New Haven (and 2011 Wimbledon champ), 22 year old 6th seeded #8 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Petra leads Agnieszka 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Aga defeated Petra 6-3, 6-2.

    Also on Wednesday in Dubai, defeated 6-4, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Thursday, Samantha will face the 2012 champ at Dallas, 29 year old #16 (career high: #15) Roberta Vinci from Taranto, Italy.

    Samantha and Roberta have met only once before, in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Toronto, when Sam defeated Roberta 6-4, 6-1.

    On Tuesday in Dubai, in the 1st round of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeated 6-3, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Samantha will play the 2012 champion at Kuala Lumpur and Guangzhou, 27 year old #29 (career high: #25) Su-Wei Hsieh from Taipei, Taiwan. Sam and Su-Wei have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Tuesday in Dubai, defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Caroline said: "Last time [I played Lucie] it was a lot tougher, 7-6 in the third set, and I lost. In general I felt the ball pretty well today. I feel the ball sometimes flies here a little bit, but I thought it was okay today...

    "Lucie is a tough opponent. She takes the ball really early, really fast, and it's tricky to play a left-hander as well. So I'm happy to be through. There were quite a few positives to take from it." WTA story

    Lucie hit 45 unforced errors in the match (Caroline had 9). Lucie said: "I was making way too many mistakes, and I couldn't get into the rhythm. Caroline was bringing the balls back, I was missing."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Caroline will play the 2011 Auckland champ (and a semifinalist at the 2010 Australian Open), 29 year old qualifier #45 (career high: #15) Jie Zheng from Cheng Du, Si Chuan, China.

    Jie leads Caroline 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on a Plexipave hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells, when Caro defeated Jie 6-4, 4-6, 6-1.

    On Monday in Dubai, in the 1st round of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeated 6-3, 7-6(5) (photo shown).

    Ana had a 4-0 lead in the 2nd set—then Anastasia managed to push it to a tiebreaker. Ana said: "[Anastasia] really started striking the ball a lot deeper and harder when she had her back against the wall towards the end of the second set. It was getting kind of difficult. I'm really happy I managed to stay in that match and finish in two sets. It really was a good effort, I think." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play the winner of Tuesday's match between 6th seeded #8 Petra Kvitova and qualifier #75 (former #5) Daniela Hantuchova.

    Also on Monday in Dubai, defeated 5-7, 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Sloane said: "Tough match. She obviously played some good tennis. Today I didn't play my best tennis. Every match isn't going to go the way you want it, and obviously I got a little frustrated, but no need to dwell on it. You just keep working hard and hanging in there and you'll be okay."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Sorana will play the winner of Tuesday's match between 5th seeded #7 Sara Errani and #19 Julia Goerges.

    On Saturday at Doha, in the semifinals of the Qatar Total Open, defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "Maria is always playing really well, and so consistent, but I'm trying to be consistent as well." WTA story

    Maria's record against Serena dropped to 2-11. Maria said: "I'm certainly capable of beating a player like Serena. That's why I'm always eager to get better and make my game better in order to go out onto the court and beat her."

    Also on Saturday at Doha, defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Vika said: "I think it was a really high performance match from both of us. It was a little bit shaky in the beginning. I think I did a little bit too many unforced errors and rushed a little bit into the rallies, but I started to be patient and more aggressive and dominant, really going for my shots when there was an opportunity, and taking advantage of every short ball she gave me. I'm glad I could turn it around."

    Victoria will face Serena in the QTO final on Sunday.
    Serena leads Vika 11-1 in career matches, and has won their last 8 encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the semifinals of the London Olympics at Wimbledon, when Serena defeated Victoria 6-1, 6-2.

    Victoria said: "We all know [Serena] has a great serve. She's really aggressive and really consistent. So for me it's important to just focus on myself and execute my game. That's it."

    Serena said: "I love it here in Doha. I've never played this particular tournament but I've played in Doha before and had some good results, and I hope to have a good result in the final tomorrow, too."

    On Friday at Doha, in the quarterfinals of the Qatar Total Open, the 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champion, 31 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 (Serena is shown after match point).

    The win guaranteed that Serena will be #1 in Monday's WTA singles rankings regardless of how the rest of the tourney turns out. At age 31, Serena will be the oldest player ever to be ranked #1 (in the computer rankings era). The previous oldest, Chris Evert, was 30 years old when she was #1 the week ending November 24, 1985.

    After winning the 1st set, Petra led 4-1 in the 2nd. Serena said: "I don't know how I did it. I really don't know. I just hung in there, and she was playing so well. Every time I looked around she was hitting a winner. I just tried to stay in there...

    "The crowd was so amazing. When I was down I could hear people cheering for me, and I don't get that all the time, so it was really nice." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Serena will play
    Serena leads Maria 10-2 in career matches, and Maria has not defeated Serena since 2004 (in the Wimbledon and WTA Championships finals). Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the final of the WTA Championships at Istanbul, when Serena defeated Maria 6-4, 6-3.

    Serena said: I'm playing a great player, and hopefully I can play better than I did today. I'm happy to still be in the tournament at this point, and I just have to refocus now. I have a tough match tomorrow. We'll see what happens. It's not over yet."

    Maria said: "Obviously I haven't beaten [Serena] in a while, but I had really tough ones against her last year. I'm looking forward to it. No matter how many losses you have, a good thing is you have another chance against them. It will give me an opportunity to change a few things." WTA story

    Also on Friday at Doha, the 2012 Qatar Total Open champion (and 2013 Australian Open champ), 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Vika said: "The score never tells the whole story, really. We had a lot of really long rallies, and I was expecting that. I know Sara's game a little bit. She's a very good fighter, and she always brings a lot of balls in. So you have to be ready for even your best shot coming back. I was ready for that, and I really felt like I took big advantage of the important moments, stayed aggressive and really dictated with my game, which was the key for me to go ahead today.

    "I had to disturb her defensive game, because she can stay there forever. I don't want to stay there forever! She likes to make her opponents travel all over Doha, really." WTA story

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Victoria will face the 2013 champion at Sydney and Auckland, 23 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Vika leads Aga 11-3 in career matches, and has won their last 7 encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on blue clay in the semifinals at Madrid, when Victoria defeated Agnieszka 6-2, 6-4.

    On Thursday at Doha, in the 3rd round of the Qatar Total Open, the 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champion, 31 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-0, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Serena will play the 2012 champ at Montreal and New Haven (and 2011 Wimbledon champ), 22 year old 7th seeded #8 (career high: #2) Petra Kvitova from Fulnek, Czech Republic.

    Serena leads Petra 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a chlorophyll court in the quarterfinals of The Championhips at Wimbledon, when Serena defeated Petra 6-3, 7-5.

    If Serena defeats Petra, she will regain the WTA #1 singles ranking on Monday regardless of how the rest of the tourney turns out.

    Also on Thursday at Doha, the 2012 champion at Roland Garros, Rome and Stuttgart (and the 2005 & 2008 Doha champ), 25 year old 3rd seeded #3 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-3, 6-3 (photo shown).

    High winds affected play, as is often the case at Doha. Maria said: "Today was one of those days where you go out there and almost know you might not be playing your best tennis. I certainly didn't play my best tennis today. But it's good to get through in these conditions. And Klara is a really tricky player to play against. I've definitely had trouble against her in the past—three-setter at Roland Garros last year. She can play. She hits the ball pretty big out there." WTA story

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Maria will face
    Maria leads Samantha 11-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the round robin of the WTA Championhips at Istanbul, when Maria defeated Samantha 6-0, 6-3.

    On Wednesday at Doha, in the 2nd round of the Qatar Total Open, the 2012 tourney champion (and 2013 Australian Open champ), 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-2, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Victoria trailed 0-2, 0-30 at the start of the match, then won the next nine games. Vika said: "I started to go for my shots too much at the beginning. Then I started to be more patient, work the points more, got more into the game and started to play much better. I'm really glad I could turn it around." WTA story

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Victoria will play
    Vika and Christina have met only once before, in 2010 on green clay in the 2nd round at Charleston. Christina, then #193, won 2-6, 2-2 retired when Victoria could not continue due to a left thigh muscle strain.

    Also on Wednesday at Doha, the 2013 finalist at Shenzhen (and 2005 champ at Portoroz & 's-Hertogenbosch), 30 year old #24 (career high: #22) Klara (Koukalova) Zakopalova from Prague, Czech Republic, defeated 4-6, 7-6(5), 7-6(5) (Klara is shown while defeating Chanelle Scheepers in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Klara will face the 2012 champion at Roland Garros, Rome and Stuttgart (and the 2005 & 2008 Doha champ), 25 year old 3rd seeded #3 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida).

    Maria leads Klara 3-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the 4th round of the French Open, when Maria, on her way to completing a career slam, defeated Klara 6-4, 6(7)-7, 6-2.

    On Tuesday at Doha, in the 2nd round of the Qatar Total Open, the 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champion, 31 year old 2nd seeded #2 (and former #1) Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-2, 6-1 (photo shown).

    In the 3rd round on Thursday, Serena will play the winner of Wednesday's match between and
    Also on Tuesday at Doha, the 2012 champion at Roland Garros, Rome and Stuttgart (and 2005 & 2008 Doha champ), 25 year old 3rd seeded #3 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, California and Bradenton, Florida), defeated 6-3, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I was quite happy with the way I played, because [Caroline] has already played a few matches here, so she's been able to get in that match atmosphere. So I wanted to start really strong. I had a tough match against her in my previous encounter where I played three sets. I really wanted to start better this time as opposed to last time." AP story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Maria will face the winner of Wednesday's match between 19 year old 16th seeded #17 (career high: #17) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida, and the 2013 finalist at Shenzhen (and 2005 champ at Portoroz & 's-Hertogenbosch), 30 year old #24 (career high: #22) Klara (Koukalova) Zakopalova from Prague, Czech Republic.

    On Monday at Doha, in the 1st round of the Qatar Total Open, the 2011 champ at Bali (and 2008 French Open champion), 25 year old 13th seeded #14 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I actually expected a very tough match with Tamira, It was a very tough first round, because we've had some battles in the past. But I started really well and was aggressive, and I just tried to do the things I've been working on. I did that well today. I felt like I was doing a lot of damage with my forehand, so I just tried to keep that game plan, and it all worked very well for me today." WTA story

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Ana will play
    Ana and Simona have never before met on the field of combat.

    Also on Monday at Doha, defeated 32 year old #204 (career high: #99) Mervana Jugic-Salkic from Zagreb, Croatia, by the same score, 6-1, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Caroline said: "As I've said before, it's tough to play your first match at any tournament, and tough to play an opponent you haven't played before, but I just tried to focus on my game. I felt like I served well and returned well during the match, so I was happy with how things went today...

    "I feel I'm hitting the ball well right now. I can do what I want to do out there on the court and have a purpose every time I step out there. It's a good feeling to have."

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday, Caro will face the winner of Tuesday's match between and
Eliat:
click for larger photo
Raluca Olaru, Andreea Mitu,
Sorana Cirstea, Cristina Dinu Moscow:

#57 Ayumi Morita
5'5" 119lb RH 2H-FH&BH     On Sunday in Rimini, Italy, in the 1st round (quarterfinals) of 2013 Fed Cup World Group competition, defeated 6-2, 4-6, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Roberta's win evened the score at 2-2 between the Italians and Americans with only the doubles match remaining. In the third "rubber" of the "tie" on Sunday, the American #1, Varvara Lepchenko defeated Italy's #2, Sara Errani, defeated USA's #2, 7-5, 6-2.

    Varvara had carried Team USA this far, but the American's might have been better of at the end with either Lisa Raymond (world doubles #7) or Vania King (d #28) on the team. In the doubles, Roberta Vinci and Sara Errani, ranked #1 and #2 in the world, defeated Varvara and Liezel Huber 6-2, 6-2, giving Italy a 3-2 victory over the USA.

    Italy advances to the 2013 Fed Cup semifinals, April 20-21, when they will host the Czech Republic. The Czechs defeated Australia 4-0.

    Meanwhile at Moscow, Russia, defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Kimiko was slowed by an achilles injury. Kimiko said: "In the morning when I was practicing, it was even difficult to walk. I took some pain killers before the match and adrenaline helped me when I was on court. Makarova is a really tough player and it was hard to get many points out there."

    Ekaterina's victory leveled the score at 2-2 between the Russians and Japanese. Earlier on Sunday, Japan's #1 defeated Russia's Elena Vesnina (who had replaced Maria Kirilenko due to illness) 6-4, 6-1.

    In the deciding doubles, Ekaterina and Elena, who play together regularly, defeated Ayumi and Misaki Doi 6-2, 6-2, giving Russia a 3-2 victory over Japan.

    Elena said: "It was tough, but it was an amazing couple of days for us and we are so happy that we beat Japan... Ekaterina was a real hero for us, as she helped us win a couple of crucial points." ITF story

    Russia will host the Slovak Republic in the Fed Cup semifinals. The Slovaks defeated Serbia 3-2 on Sunday.

    Also on April 20-21, in the World Group Playoffs, World Group losers USA, Japan, Australia and Serbia will face World Group II winners Germany, Switzerland, Spain and Sweden. The matchups will be determined at a later date. WG Playoff winners will be in the World Group in 2014 (playing for the Fed Cup), losers will be in World Group II.

    On Saturday in Rimini, Italy, in the 1st round (quarterfinals) of 2013 Fed Cup World Group competition, defeated the 2012 champ at Dallas, 28 year old #16 (career high: #15) Roberta Vinci from Taranto, Italy, 2-6, 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Roberta was slowed by cramping late in the match. There were 14 breaks of serve, seven by each player. Varvara struck 34 winners, but with 70 unforced errors; Roberta hit 26 winners, with 57 errors.

    Varvara said: "I was pretty confident going into my first match... I love clay court. I've done well in the past on this surface... I know [Roberta Vinci and Sara Errani's] games pretty well." ITF story

    Varvara's win evened the score at 1-1 between the Americans and Italians with three matches remaining. In the first "rubber" of the "tie" on Saturday, Italy's #1, Sara Errani, defeated USA's #2, Jamie Hampton, 6-2, 6-1.

    Meanwhile at Moscow, Russia, defeated the 2010 Eastbourne champ, 24 year old #20 (career high: #19) Ekaterina Makarova from Moscow, Russia, 2-6, 6-4, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Ayumi's victory leveled the score at 1-1 between the Japanese and Russians. Earlier on Saturday, Russia's #1 Maria Kirilenko defeated Japan's Kimiko Date-Krumm 7-6(3), 6-4.

    Ayumi said: "I am really happy with the way I played today. I played really well from the beginning. I knew {Ekaterina is} a tough player and I would have to play my best tennis to beat her... Playing aggressively is my tennis, so I was trying to play aggressive." ITF story

    In other World Group play defending champions Czech Republic took a 2-0 lead over visiting Australia as Petra Kvitova defeated Jarmila Gajdosova and Lucie Safarova defeated Samantha Stosur.

    And Serbia, though devastated by the withdrawals of Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Jankovic due to injury, ended the day tied at 1-1 with the visiting Slovak team when Slovakia's Dominika Cibulkova, though leading 6-4, 5-4, was forced to retire from her match against Vesna Dolonc due to severe cramping. Domi was taken from the court on a stretcher, but it is hoped that she can recover in time to play on Sunday.

Melbourne (file, January 14, 2013):
click for larger photo
#22 Klara Zakopalova
5' 5¼" 110lb RH 2H-BH     On Sunday in Paris, in the final of the GDF Suez Open, defeated (Mona is shown holding the hardware after the match).

    Mona's prize is $117,000; Sara's prize is $62,300.

    Mona led 5-2 in the 2nd set, but Sara won the next three games. Mona said: "Even though I was up a set and 5-2, I knew she's a fighter and doesn't give any points away. I was a little bit nervous. It was my first final in such a big tournament and she was making it so difficult for me in the end. Bbut I just tried to keep stepping in and going for my shots, and I had to keep telling myself I was still in a position to win the match despite all of those things." WTA story

    Sara said: "Mona serves so well, plays so well from the baseline and physically moves so well... I usually like to have more time to place the ball where I want but I was on a limit today, particularly on my serve. I tried my best, but she was just unbeatable today."

    Mona and Sara had never before met on the field of combat. Mona is now 2-1 in WTA singles finals, and has a 12-3 singles match record for the year. Sara is now 6-5 in WTA singles finals, and has a 6-4 singles match record in 2013.

    Meanwhile at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the final of the Pattaya Women's Open, defeated (Maria is shown holding the ceramicware after the match).

    Maria's prize is $40,000; Sabine's prize is $20,000.

    Maria said: "I feel great. To win a title is always special, but it's even more pleasure when you win such a tough one. It was tough. Sabine played very well. I'm very happy to win this title...
    "What worked best for me today was my forehand. And my return was really helping today too. I think I hit it very well." WTA story

    Sabine said: "I hadn't been in a final in a while, so even though it's a tough one to lose, I still feel very good about my week. I played some good tennis here. I was working so hard in the off-season and it's nice to see it's already paying off, especially since we're just at the start of the year right now... It was such a close match and I had chances to win, but I just didn't take them. I'll learn a lot though.."

    Maria now leads Sabine 3-0 in career matches. They had not met since 2008, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Cincinnati, Maria defeated Sabine 6-2, 1-6, 6-1.

    Maria is now 6-6 in WTA singles finals, and has a 9-2 singles match record this season. Sabine is now 3-3 in WTA singles finals, and has a 5-3 singles match record this year.

    On Saturday in Paris, in the semifinals of the GDF Suez Open, the 2012 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 22 year old #38 (career high: #31) Mona Barthel from Neumunster, Germany, defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Mona said: "[Kristina] beat so many great players this week and was playing great tennis, so I knew I had to serve well and play my best. I wasn't focusing on winning, I was just focusing on my strokes and going for my shots, and it went well for me today." WTA story

    In the GDF Suez Open final on Sunday, Mona will play the 2012 champ at Barcelona, 25 year old 5th seeded #6 (high: #6) Sara Errani from Bologna, Italy.

    Mona and Sara have never before met on the field of combat. Sara is 6-4 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 6-3 singles match record in 2013. Mona is 1-1 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 11-3 singles match record for the year.

    Meanwhile at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the semifinals of the Pattaya Women's Open, the 2012 finalist at Pattaya City (and 2008 champion at Estoril, Barcelona, and Seoul), 26 year old 2nd seeded #15 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia, defeated 6-0, 6-2 (photo shown).

    In the Pattaya Women's Open final on Sunday, Maria will play the 2011 champ at Birmingham and Dallas, 23 year old 5th seeded #36 (career high #13) Sabine Lisicki of Germany (residence: Bradenton, Florida).

    Maria leads Sabine 2-0 in career matches. They have not met since 2008, when, on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Cincinnati, Maria defeated Sabine 6-2, 1-6, 6-1.

    Maria is 5-6 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 8-2 singles match record this season. Sabine is 3-2 in previous WTA singles finals, and has a 5-2 singles match record this year.

    On Friday in Paris, in the quarterfinals of the GDF Suez Open, the 2012 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 22 year old #38 (career high: #31) Mona Barthel from Neumunster, Germany, defeated 7-6(7), 6-4 (Mona is shown while defeating Kirsten Flipkens in this year's Hobart semifinals).

    Mona had also defeated Marion in their only previous meeting, last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Stuttgart, 6-3, 6-1.

    In the GDF Suez Open semifinals on Saturday, Mona will play 19 year old wild card #98 (last week, this week #87, career high: #76) Kristina Mladenovic of France (residence: Saint Pol sur Mer, SUI).

    Mona leads Kristina 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a hard court in the 1st round of an ITF tourney at Shrewsbury, when Mona defeated Kristina 6-2, 6-1.

    Meanwhile at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the quarterfinals of the Pattaya Women's Open, the 2012 finalist at Pattaya City (and 2008 champion at Estoril, Barcelona, and Seoul), 26 year old 2nd seeded #15 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia, defeated 7-6(6), 6-3 (Maria is shown while defeating Yanina Wickmayer in the 3rd round of this year's Australian Open).

    Maria said: "Elena has improved a lot this year. It seems she has been working very hard. Now she looks like a top 20 player. It was a difficult match. The first set was very tight, almost one-and-a-half hours. The second set I definitely played better. I'm just happy I was able to get through such a tough match." WTA story

    Elena said: "It was a great match against Maria. I was just a little bit unlucky in the first set tie-break, with one or two balls making the difference. I tried to come back in the second set, but I just didn't have the energy. It feels like I played two tournaments this week with the conditions and all the rain. But no excuses, Maria is a great Top 20 player, a fighter."

    In the semifinals on Saturday, Maria will play the 2008 Tashkent champion (and a 2009 French Open quarterfinalist), 22 year old #41 (career high: #23) Sorana Cirstea from Targoviste, Romania.

    Maria and Sorana are tied at 2-2 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was one year ago, on the same hardcourt, in the semifinals at the Pattaya Dusit Resort, when L'il Masha defeated Sori 6-2, 5-7, 6-4.

    On Thursday at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the 2nd round of the Pattaya Women's Open, defeated her compatriot, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 (Ayumi is shown while defeating Anna Tatishvili in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    It was Ayumi's second win of the day. Earlier on Thursday, in a 1st round match which began on Tuesday but was interrupted by rain, Aymui defeated top-seeded #13 Ana Ivanovic of Serbia, 6-3, 5-7, 6-3.

    Ayumi tweeted: "Won my 2nd match 6-1 in the 3rd! Another tough one, but very happy to be through, and feeling good to have 2 good wins in 1 day! Looking forward To play another match tomorrow! Thanks for all the support!!" Ayumi Morita at Twitter

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Ayumi will play
    Also on Thursday at Pattaya, the 2013 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 26 year old #47 (last week, this week #33, career high: #22) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia, defeated 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 (Elena is shown while defeating Jarmila Gajdosova in the quarterfinals at Hobart earlier this month).

    Elena tweeted: "1:47am, having ice massage, finished another marathon match against Johansson, won it 6-1 in the 3rd. Didn't expect it from Pattaya, honestly." Elena Vesnina at Twitter

    In the quarterfinals on Friday, Elena will play the 2012 finalist at Pattaya City (and 2008 champion at Estoril, Barcelona, and Seoul), 26 year old 2nd seeded #15 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia.

    Maria leads Elena 3-0 in career matches. Their last encounter was in 2012 on an indoor hardcourt in the 1st round at Moscow, when Maria defeated Elena 7-5, 6-1.

    On Wednesday in Paris, in the 2nd round of the GDF Suez Open, the 2011 champion at Eastbourne and Osaka, 28 year old 3rd seeded #11 (career high: #7) Marion Bartoli of France (residence: Geneva, SUI), defeated 7-5, 6-1 (Marion is shown alerting the media on Tuesday).

    Christina led throughout the 1st set until failing to convert set points. After that it was all Marion.

    Marion has not played in Fed Cup competition for France due to a disagreement concerning her father being her coach—and players' personal coaches not being allowed to attend Fed Cup events. It was announced on Wednesday that Marion has reached an agreement with French tennis officials, and will play for France in their February 9-10 World Group II Fed Cup matches against Germany.

    In the GDF Suez Open quarterfinals on Friday, Marion will play the 2012 champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 22 year old #38 (career high: #31) Mona Barthel from Neumunster, Germany.

    Marion and Mona have met only once before, last year on red clay in the 2nd round at Stuttgart, when Mona defeated Marion 6-3, 6-1.

    Also on Wednesday in Paris, in a 1st round match, defeated 4-6, 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Yanina will play 19 year old wild card #98 (last week, this week #87, career high: #76) Kristina Mladenovic of France (residence: Saint Pol sur Mer, SUI). It will be their first meeting in pro singles.

    On Tuesday in Paris, in the 1st round of the GDF Suez Open, defeated 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 (photo shown).

    In the 2nd round on Thursday, Alize will play the winner of Wednesday's match between 6th seeded late-entry wild card #17 Lucie Safarova of the Czech Republic and #46 Lourdes Dominguez Lino of Spain.

    Meanwhile at Pattaya City, Thailand, in the 1st round of the Pattaya Women's Open, the 2012 finalist at Pattaya City (and 2008 champion at Estoril, Barcelona, and Seoul), 26 year old 2nd seeded #15 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia, defeated 6-3, 7-5 (Maria is shown while defeating Yanina Wickmayer in the 3rd round of this year's Australian Open).

    Maria said: "The first match is always difficult, especially with these humid conditions. But I'm happy with my game." WTA story

    In the 2nd round Thursday, Maria will play
    On Monday in Paris, in the 1st round of the GDF Suez Open, the 2013 finalist at Shenzhen (and 2005 champ at Portoroz & 's-Hertogenbosch), 30 year old 8th seeded #22 (career high: #22) Klara (Koukalova) Zakopalova from Prague, Czech Republic, defeated the 2011 champ at Palermo and Estoril, 30 year old #52 (career high #16) Anabel Medina Garrigues from Valencia, Spain, 2-6, 7-5, 6-0 (no match photos are yet available, so Klara is shown while defeating Chanelle Scheepers in the 1st round of this year's Australian Open).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Klara will play the winner of Tuesday's match between #33 Carla Suarez Navarro of Spain and qualifier #49 Monica Niculescu of Romania.

    Also on Monday in Paris, 20 year old #35 (career high: #24) Christina McHale from Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, defeated 6-4, 6-1 (Christina is shown while defeating Misaki Doi in the 2nd round at Carlsbad last year).

    In the 2nd round on Wednesday or Thursday, Christina will play the 2011 Eastbourne and Osaka champion, 28 year old 3rd seeded #11 (career high: #7) Marion Bartoli of France (residence: Geneva, SUI).

    Marion leads Christina 2-1 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Carlsbad, when Marion defeated Christina 7-5, 4-6, 6-4.

Melbourne:

#50 Laura Robson
5'9" 150lb RH 2H-BH     On Thursday at Melbourne, in the semifinals of the 2013 Australian Open, the 2012 AO champion, 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), won again, defeating 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 (Na is shown during the match; Vika is shown holding the hardware afterward).

    Victoria's prize is AUD$2,430,000; Na's prize is AUD$1,215,000 (as of Jan. 25, $1 AUD = $1.0508 US).

    At the trophy presentation, Victoria said: "It's been a wonderful two weeks for me. I will always keep a very special memory of this court. It will always be in my heart. And also congratulations to Li Na. It has been a great start of the year for you. Best of luck and I hope to see you in many more finals."

    Vika now leads Na 6-4 in career matches. Their previous meeting was last year on blue clay in the quarterfinals at Madrid, when Victoria defeated Na 3-6, 6-3, 6-3.

    Vika is now 15-11 in WTA singles finals, 2-1 in Grand Slam finals, and has an 9-0 singles match record in 2013.

    Na is now 7-9 in WTA singles finals, 1-2 in Grand Slam finals, and has a 14-2 singles match record for the year.

    Victoria's victory means that she will hold on to the WTA #1 singles ranking. Serena Williams will be #2 in Monday's rankings, Maria Sharapova #3, Agnieszka Radwanska #4, and Li Na #5.

    If Na had won the final, Serena Williams would have retaken the #1 ranking. However, Vika has a large number of ranking points to defend in the first part of this season (as does Maria Sharapova) and Serena has very few points to defend, making it almost inevitable that Serena will again be #1 sometime in the next few months.

    more later today...

    Men's final Sunday: s1 Novak Djokovic SRB v s3 Andy Murray GBR

    On Thursday at Melbourne, in the semifinals of the 2013 Australian Open, this year's Shenzhen champ, the 2011 French Open champ (& AO finalist), 30 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated the 2008 AO champion (and 2012 finalist), 25 year old 2nd seeded #2 Maria Sharapova of Russia (res: Manhattan Beach, CA & Bradenton, FL), 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Na said: "Beginning of the match I was nervous. I was happy I come back to semis again, but for some reason I really want to win the match. I don't know what happened today. Just come to the court, feeling like, 'Okay, just do it.' Yeah." postmatch interview

    Maria still leads Na 8-5 in career matches. Maria said: "I think [Na] played a really great match. She was certainly much more aggressive than I was, dictating the play. I was always on the defense. When I had my opportunities and breakpoints in games that went to deuce, I don't think any of them really went my way today... There's no reason why she can't win [the final]." postmatch interview

    Also on Thursday at Melbourne, the 2012 AO champion, 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-1, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Victoria had to take a medical timeout late in them match due to a rib dislocation which was hurting her back. She called the MTO at a time when some might have considered it "gamesmanship."

    Vika said: "I had been struggling a little bit throughout the whole match, from the second set, my back. And it just kept getting worse. I should have, you know, called the trainer a little bit earlier before that when I got to the point that I couldn't really breathe and had to go off court. So there was a little bit of my bad. But just a rib got locked and kept getting worse. I had to have it adjusted. I really had to go and take that medical timeout." postmatch interview

    Sloane said: "I obviously didn't get the win, but I just did everything I could and came up a little bit short. All in all it was okay... she played obviously a really good match. First set she played awesome; got close in the second. I just didn't want to give it to her basically and just kind of worked for every point. It didn't go my way, but I wouldn't say at all [that the medical time out] affected the match." postmatch interview

    Victoria will play Na in the Australian Open final on Saturday..

    Vika leads Na 5-4 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on blue clay in the quarterfinals at Madrid, when Victoria defeated Na 3-6, 6-3, 6-3.

    Vika is 14-11 in previous WTA singles finals, 1-1 in previous Grand Slam finals, and has an 8-0 singles match record in 2013.

    Na is 7-8 in previous WTA singles finals, 1-1 in previous Grand Slam finals, and has a 14-1 singles match record for the year.

    Victoria must win the final on Saturday in order to hold on to the WTA #1 singles ranking. If Na wins the final, Serena Williams will retake the #1 ranking on Monday.

    Commenting about the final before the other semi was completed, Na said: "2011, first time to the Grand Slam final, I was a little bit shocked because I didn't know what I should do. Also no one tell me what I should do on the court. But this time I got more experience, so I think should be better."

    Victoria said: "I think [Na is] in incredible form right now really. You know, in the finals anything can happen. It looks like she improved a lot. Will be a tough match, so I'm really looking forward to it."

    Men's final Sunday: s1 Novak Djokovic SRB v s3 Andy Murray GBR

    On Wednesday at Melbourne, in the quarterfinals of the 2013 Australian Open, 19 year old 29th seeded #29 (career high: #29) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida, defeated 3-6, 7-5, 6-4 (photo shown).

    After losing the 1st set, Sloane trailed 0-2 in the 2nd. Sloane said: "I was like, 'Hmm, this is not the way you want it to happen. But you just fight and just get every ball back, run every ball down, and just get a lot of balls in play, I think you'll be okay.' From then on I got aggressive, started coming to the net more, and just got a lot more comfortable." postmatch interview

    Although she gave Sloane full credit for the win, Serena, who had an ankle injury prior to the tourney, was slowed during the match by a back injury. Serena said: "It's hard to rotate to the backhand. It was giving me trouble. But it was fine. I think my opponent played well and was able to do a really good job." postmatch interview

    Also on Wednesday at Melbourne, the 2012 AO champion, 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 7-5, 6-1 (photo shown).

    The 1st set lasted an hour and 17 minutes. Vika said: "I feel like at the beginning it was a little bit like play around, a lot of back and forth. I think we were both producing good tennis, but I felt like she was a little bit on top of me on the important moments. I didn't really take advantage of that, and she really did. So I felt like that was the main thing that she got that lead [late in the 1st set]. Then I turned it around and I took control in my hands and it was more up to me." postmatch interview

    Svetlana said: "I had to play with a top player, one of the best players at the moment. These matches, you got to play very consistent. This is what for the moment kills me after my break [missing the 2nd half of 2012 due to a knee injury], is my consistency. And I didn't serve well. So this was two key points during the match what I didn't do well. That's why I lost the match." postmatch interview

    Victoria will play Sloane in the Australian Open semifinals on Thursday. They have never before met on the field of combat.

    Sloane said: "Gonna be a totally different match. I'm just going to go out and play my best, obviously. Do what I do really well and just play my game. Just hopefully play well again."

    Before Sloane played Serena, Victoria said: "I think Sloane is a very, very talented girl... Her game has come together. She's all around player, very competitive. I think she has a good potential. It's just a matter of her getting all those details in place and really wanting to achieve great things."

    In Thursday's other semifinal, the 2008 AO champion (and 2012 finalist), 25 year old 2nd seeded #2 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA & Bradenton, FL), will play this year's champion at Shenzhen, the 2011 French Open champion (and Australian Open finalist), 30 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Maria leads Na 8-4 in career matches, and Maria won their last three encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Beijing, when Maria defeated Na 6-4, 6-0.

    Na said: "[Maria is] more aggressive player on the court. Also she's tough. She's fighting a lot. Should be tough match. So we can see Thursday."

    Maria said: "I've beaten [Na] the last few times that we've played, but they've always been really good matches, really tough matches. I certainly expect it in the next one. She's had a great start to the year and playing really well. She was, you know, the most improved player towards the end of last year as well, so that will be hopefully a high quality semi."

    On Tuesday in Melbourne, in the quarterfinals of the 2013 Australian Open, the 2008 AO champion (and 2012 finalist), 25 year old 2nd seeded #2 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA & Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-2, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Maria has yet to lose a set at this year's Australian Open, and has dropped only 9 games in 5 matches (games won-lost record 60-9).

    Maria said: "[Ekaterina has] beaten quality players over the course of last week, and I know that she's capable of playing really good with deep hitting. Also a lefty, which is a bit tricky. So I thought I handled that pretty good and was able to keep my focus all the way through the match." postmatch interview

    Ekaterina said: "[Maria is] in a great shape. She's playing unbelievable, so aggressive, and just in the right spot of the court. It's really tough to play against her now. I wanted to be a little bit faster. I didn't really think that I moved that well today. But she's, like, so great now, it was really tough." postmatch interview

    Also on Tuesday at Melbourne, this year's champion at Shenzhen, the 2011 French Open champion (and Australian Open finalist), 30 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China, defeated 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Na said: "[Agnieszka is] a tough player. I was feeling today against a wall. She can hit everywhere, but without a mistake. I was feeling just very tough. You have to focus on every shot. Not every point, every shot. If you hit like slow or like short one, she'll attack." postmatch interview

    It was Agnieszka's the first loss of the season (13-1); she had defeated Na in the Sydney semifinals. Agnieszka said: "I think [Na] played better than last week in Sydney. Definitely she was very solid from the beginning of the match. She was really playing good tennis. Some of the games she didn't let me do anything. Very deep balls all the time. Good serve. She was really playing good tennis today." postmatch interview

    Na will play Maria in the Australian Open semifinals on Thursday.

    Maria leads Na 4-0 in career matches, and Maria won their last three encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the semifinals at Beijing, when Maria defeated Na 6-4, 6-0.

    Na said: "[Maria is] more aggressive player on the court. Also she's tough. She's fighting a lot. Should be tough match. So we can see Thursday."

    Maria said: "I've beaten [Na] the last few times that we've played, but they've always been really good matches, really tough matches. I certainly expect it in the next one. She's had a great start to the year and playing really well. She was, you know, the most improved player towards the end of last year as well, so that will be hopefully a high quality semi."

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, the 2012 AO champion, 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), will face the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 27 year old #85 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Svetlana leads Vika 4-3 in career matches, but Vika won their last two encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 3rd round at Indian Wells, when Victoria defeated Svetlana 6-1, 6-2.

    In Wednesday's other quarterfinal, the 5 time Australian Open champion (and 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champ), 31 year old 3rd seeded #3 (and former #1) Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, will play 19 year old 29th seeded #29 (career high: #29) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida.

    Serena and Sloane have met only once before, less than three weeks ago on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Brisbane, when Serena defeated Sloane 6-4, 6-3.

    Sloane said: "Obviously every match is a learning experience. But you've just got to go and treat it like another match. It wasn't like, 'Oh, my God, I played Serena, I'm going to be so great at all these other things because she just taught me so much.' It was just another match, regular match." postmatch interview

    On Monday in Melbourne, in the 4th round of the 2013 Australian Open, the 2012 AO champion, 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-1, 6-1 (photo shown).

    Vika said: "I felt like I was playing pretty good today. I was focused and in control from the beginning. That was important for me. I feel like I'm improving from match to match." postmatch interview

    Later in the day, Elena reached the doubles quarterfinals partnered with Ekaterina Makarova. Elena said: "Another long day at the office. Singles was tough. Vika was too good, well played for her. I run out of the gas a bit, but still got doubles win with my partner Ekaterina. Who is also still playing in singles :) As you can see, we both really want to stay longer in Melbourne!" Elena Vesnina at Twitter

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Victoria will face the 2009 French Open and 2004 US Open champion, 27 year old #85 (career high: #2) Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco).

    Svetlana leads Vika 4-3 in career matches, but Vika won their last two encounters. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Plexipave hardcourt in the 3rd round at Indian Wells, when Victoria defeated Svetlana 6-1, 6-2.

    Also on Monday at Melbourne, the 5 time Australian Open champion (and 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champ), 31 year old 3rd seeded #3 (and former #1) Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Serena put 87% of her 1st serves in the box. Serena said: "I definitely have never hit that high of a percentage because I take a lot of chances with my serve. It was good. But I really want to be able to keep it up." postmatch interview

    Maria said: "I think I try to do something special tonight. That's why was so many mistakes... maybe I was trying too much. It wasn't my day today." postmatch interview

    In the quarterfinals on Wednesday, Serena will play 19 year old 29th seeded #29 (career high: #29) Sloane Stephens from Coral Springs, Florida.

    Serena and Sloane have met only once before, less than three weeks ago on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Brisbane, when Serena defeated Sloane 6-4, 6-3.

    Sloane said: "Obviously every match is a learning experience. But you've just got to go and treat it like another match. It wasn't like, 'Oh, my God, I played Serena, I'm going to be so great at all these other things because she just taught me so much.' It was just another match, regular match." postmatch interview

    On Sunday in Melbourne, in the 4th round of the 2013 Australian Open, the 2012 AO finalist (and 2008 champion), 25 year old 2nd seeded #2 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA & Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-1, 6-0 (photo shown).

    Maria has yet to lose a set at this year's Australian Open, and has dropped only 5 games in 4 matches (games won-lost record 48-5).

    Maria said: "It's really about keeping your focus no matter what the score is, no matter if you're up. I didn't start the match really great. I was facing a different type of opponent today and I was making a few more mistakes than I would have liked in the beginning. But after I held at 2-1 I really started making her play a little bit more. Started really getting under the ball and being aggressive and just had a little bit more energy which really helped me and I carried that throughout the match." postmatch interview

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Maria will play the 2010 Eastbourne champ, 24 year old 19th seeded #19 (career high: #19) Ekaterina Makarova from Moscow, Russia.

    Maria leads Katya 4-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was one year ago in the quarterfinals at Melbourne, when Maria defeated Ekaterina (who had defeated Serena Williams in the previous round) 6-2, 6-3.

    Also on Sunday at Melbourne, the champ at Sydney last week and at Auckland 2 weeks ago (and 2012 champion at Dubai, Miami and Brussels), 23 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland, defeated 6-2, 6-4 (photo shown).

    Agnieszka has not yet lost a match this season (13-0). Agnieszka said: "I think I play very good, especially that I think I was keeping the same level from the beginning till the end. That's why I was able to close this match in two sets." postmatch interview

    Ana said: "Obviously I'm disappointed. I really feel I was mis-timing a lot of balls in the first set. I started playing better in the second set, but she played a good match. She's a really tough player." postmatch interview

    In the quarterfinals on Tuesday, Aga will face this year's champion at Shenzhen, the 2011 French Open champion (and Australian Open finalist), 30 year old 6th seeded #6 (career high: #4) Na Li from Wuhan, Hubei, China.

    Na leads Aga 5-4 in career matches, but Aga won their most recent meeting, 9 days ago on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the semifinals at Sydney, when Agnieszka defeated Na 6-3, 6-4.

    On Saturday in Melbourne, in the 3rd round of the 2013 Australian Open, the 2012 AO champion, 23 year old top seeded #1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus (residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco), defeated 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 (photo shown).

    Vika said: "It was definitely tough. It's always good to battle through not playing well, not feeling great... Towards the end things were going better for me. I'm glad about that, but definitely she played an outstanding match." postmatch interview

    Although she played well, Jamie was slowed by back pain. Jamie said: " I'm pretty disappointed right now... I put in a lot of hard work and it's showing." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Monday, Victoria will play last week's champion at Hobart, Tasmania, 26 year old #68 (last week, this week #47, career high: #22) Elena Vesnina from Sochi, Russia.

    Vika leads Elena 3-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 3rd round at Beijing, when Victoria defeated Elena 6-3, 6-3. Victoria, who withdrew from Brisbane after 2 matches due to a toe infection, is 5-0 in 2013; Elena is 10-1.

    Also on Saturday at Melbourne, the 5 time Australian Open champion (and 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champ), 31 year old 3rd seeded #3 (and former #1) Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Serena said: "I thought [Ayumi] played really well. She played at a level higher than I expected, so it took me off guard. She was just consistent, really consistent... I thought it was a good match." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Monday, Serena will face the 2012 finalist at Pattaya City (and 2008 champion at Estoril, Barcelona, and Seoul), 25 year old #14 (career high: #12) Maria Kirilenko from Moscow, Russia.

    Serena leads Maria 5-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 2nd round at Stanford, when Serena defeated Maria 6-2, 3-6, 6-2.

    On Friday in Melbourne, in the 3rd round of the 2013 Australian Open, the 2012 AO finalist (and 2008 champion), 25 year old 2nd seeded #2 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA & Bradenton, FL), defeated 6-1, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Maria said: "I was a really determined player out there because I knew the tennis that [Venus is] capable of producing and playing. Despite what she's ranked or seeded, it doesn't matter when you go out on the court. She's been there. She's experienced enough to know no matter if you're playing the third round, the quarters, or the final, you have to be ready." postmatch interview

    Maria now leads Venus 5-3 in career matches. Their previous meeting was last year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Rome, when Maria defeated Venus 6-4, 6-3.

    Venus said: "[Maria] played very well. I expect her to play well... Definitely not my best day today. But there's always other days to play better." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Maria will play 27 year old #51 (last week, this week at a career high: #43) Kirsten Flipkens from Mol, Belgium.

    Maria leads Kirsten 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2010 on red clay in the 2nd round at Roland Garros, when Maria defeated Kirsten 6-3, 6-3.

    Also on Friday at Melbourne, the 2008 AO finalist (and 2011 champion at Bali), 24 year old 13th seeded #13 (and former #1) Ana Ivanovic of Serbia (residence: Basel, SUI), defeated her compatriot, 7-5, 6-3 (photo shown).

    Ana said: "I'm very happy. It was tough match. I think it was intense from the first to the last moment, but I really felt like I stayed in the zone and I played each point for that point. That's what was my goal today, so I'm very pleased I managed to do that and to do it well." postmatch interview

    In the 4th round on Sunday, Ana will face the champ at Sydney last week and at Auckland 2 weeks ago (and 2012 champion at Dubai, Miami and Brussels), 23 year old 4th seeded #4 (career high: #2) Agnieszka Radwanska from Krakow, Poland.

    Aga leads Ana 4-3 in career matches, but Ana won their first three encounters, and Agnieszka won their last four. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the quarterfinals at Beijing, when Agnieszka defeated Ana, 6-3, 3-2 retired. Ana, who had defeated Svetlana Kuznetsova and Vera Zvonareva in previous rounds, could not continue that day due to a low back injury.

    Agnieszka has not yet lost a match this season (12-0). Ana said: "She has style of game that, you know, she doesn't give you much and you really have to work for your points. Being patient is going to be a key. It's going to be tough, for sure. I have to be prepared to work hard for my points and to keep on putting pressure on her... I will go over the tactics a little more with my coach today and tomorrow, and, you know, hopefully we can have a good match."

    On Thursday in Melbourne, in the 2nd round of the 2013 Australian Open, defeated 3-6, 6-3, 11-9 (photo shown).

    The match ended after midnight. Laura said: "Even when [Petra] went up a break twice in the third, I just thought I can always break her serve, I just have to get as many returns in as I can. And in the end, I just thought I've got nothing to lose. So I'm just going to relax on my serve a bit more and just go for it." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Laura will play
    Laura and Sloane have met only once before, last week on a Plexicushion hardcourt in the 1st round at Hobart, when Sloane defeated Laura 6-4, 7-6(4).

    Laura said: "We first played each other when I was 10 or 11, I think... I definitely feel like I could play a lot better than I did last week, and it's going to be really tough, for sure. [Sloane is] in good form at the moment. She's a good mover, good ball striker... She's always been good, so it's not a surprise that she's doing well."

    Also on Thursday at Melbourne, the 5 time Australian Open champion (and 2012 Wimbledon, Olympic, & US Open champ), 31 year old 3rd seeded #3 (and former #1) Serena Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, defeated 6-2, 6-0 (photo shown).

    About the ankle injury she incurred in the 1st round, Serena said: "I didn't feel anything today. Obviously when you go out to play you're heavy on adrenaline and you're really pumped up. Usually I feel injuries after the match, but so far, so good. I felt pretty, much better than I ever dreamed of expecting to feel." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Saturday, Serena will face 22 year old #81 (career high: #40) Ayumi Morita from Ota City, Japan. They have never before met on the field of combat—in singles.

Serena said: "Actually, I have played [Ayumi] in doubles. She's a really good player."

    On Wednesday in Melbourne, in the 2nd round of the 2013 Australian Open, the 2012 AO finalist (and champ at Roland Garros, Rome and Stuttgart), 25 year old 2nd seeded #2 Maria Sharapova of Russia (residences: Manhattan Beach, CA & Bradenton, FL), crushed, killed and destroyed 6-0, 6-0 (photo shown).

    It was Maria's second consecutive double-bagel victory; she has yet to lose a game this year. Maria said: "I was just really trying to be focused... But it's always tough, especially when you're up a set and a couple of breaks to keep that momentum. You know, I really forced myself to concentrate and just get the job done today." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Maria will play the 5-time Wimbledon champion, 32 year old #25 (and former #1) Venus Williams from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    Maria leads Venus 4-3 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was last year on red clay in the quarterfinals at Rome, when Maria defeated Venus 6-4, 6-3.

    Maria said: "We've played against each other many times. You know, despite the fact that she might not be seeded high or didn't play for a little bit, she's still a very experienced player and a tremendous athlete. Going out there, there won't be too many secrets. I hope for it to be a great match."

    Also on Wednesday at Melbourne, defeated 6-4, 1-6, 7-5 (photo shown).

    Jie trailed 2-5 in the 3rd set, then won 5 games in a row. Jie said: "In the final set 2 5, I was thinking first time I played in center court is 2006. I thinking, How many times I can play like this court? I need to keep fighting and enjoy the match. Yeah, just too simple. It's amazing I can come back." postmatch interview

    Jie had also defeated Sam one week ago in the 1st round at Sydney, 6-3, 6(9)-7, 6-4.

    Aussie #1 Sam said: "The way [Jie] hits the ball, you certainly want to have the rally started on your terms as quickly as possible... As soon as you start getting in a bang bang, hitting it hard, low over the net match, that's not my game style. That's exactly what she wants to do.... I know that she never gives up. I was certainly well aware of that. I certainly had to finish the match." postmatch interview

    In the 3rd round on Friday, Jie will face
    Jie leads Julia 2-0 in career matches. Their most recent meeting was in 2011 on a Deco-Turf hardcourt in the 1st round at Cincinnati, when Jie defeated Julia 6-2, 1-6, 6-4.

WTA SCOREBOARD: Charleston & Monterrey

   
s=seed, #=rank, *=upset , LL=lucky loser         ranks are for the previous week