Tennisopolis : Tennis Social Network

So, I've had this poll going on at my blog, Tennis Talk, Anyone? for the past few days on who deserves to be number 1 on the WTA tour and I'm wondering after last night's matches at the Rogers Cup if those four should be considered.

Maria Sharapova going three I understand: Her arm's about to fall off, which is sad because it's going to be tough to navigate around that as her career goes on. She just pulled out of the Olympics and is doubtful for the U.S. Open.

But Ana Ivanovic, the current number 1, going three against Kvitova? That's no good. Granted, it was Ivanovic's first match since Wimbledon, but you know what? Why was it her first match since Wimbledon? That was eons ago, and she lost early then! While what she's achieved is great, she doesn't seem like a dominant number 1. And I don't know about you, but I like my number 1's dominant!

Serena Williams has been playing more this year than she has in years, but it looks like the knee's acting up again. She's been pretty consistent, but she needs to take the U.S. Open to have a legit shot at the top.

Jelena Jankovic has been consistent, too, but sometimes I wonder how she even makes it through two matches in a row. Has anyone ever taken the court as bandaged as she usually is?

It's funny, the only player that's handling her business like a potential number 1 is Dinara Safina: someone I ragged on forever until finally seeing the light this year. She gets out there and plays, she's fighting out of top spots and she's dropping hammers on weaker opponents. Just look at that picture of her with the big check: That's how it's supposed to be for top players! However, the way the WTA's ranking system is set up, it would take her winning all four majors next year to be queen of the hill!

I can't go in and edit that poll over there because once someone's voted, but with injuries and some weird sort of apathy taking a toll among the top candidates, maybe "none of the above" should've been an option. Or Safina should at least be a write-in candidate!

Where have you gone, Justine Henin?

(Photos: Getty Images)

Views: 20

Comment

You need to be a member of Tennisopolis : Tennis Social Network to add comments!

Join Tennisopolis : Tennis Social Network

Comment by Van Sias on August 1, 2008 at 9:11am
Hey Mark, thanks! I thought months ago that it would come down to Maria, Serena and Venus once the tour got off the dirt, but they're all out of the running. Ana lost last night, and I know she said she's injured, but if you can play three sets, you have to come through in that situation. I never thought Dinara would do as well as she's doing. Hopefully she can keep it up!
Comment by Mark / The Mayor on July 31, 2008 at 9:48pm
Fantastic post! I can't agree more. One of these ladies will step to the top - I'm thinking Ana I. eventually, but she's a little soft still. I agree that Safina is looking like dark horse turned front-runner.
M

Like Us!

Marketplace

© 2024   Created by Mark / The Mayor.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service