2008 French Open: Day One Preview
Published by Aaress Lawless on May 24, 2008 | Print |
Last year’s finalist Ana Ivanovic kicks off the start of this year’s proceedings at the 2008 French Open on Sunday in Paris, France.
The bottom half of the women’s draw takes to the court tomorrow at Roland Garros, led by second seed Ivanovic and fifth seed and former champion Serena Williams.
The first round of play at the French Open will span three days, instead of the traditional two.
Aaress’ Picks for Sunday
(2) Ana Ivanovic vs. Sofia Arvidsson
Ana needs a solid start to her Grand Slam campaign because the last few weeks have been disappointing for the world No. 2. She narrowly missed claiming the top ranking after Justine Henin retired and was dumped out of Rome in just the second round. Ivanovic should have no trouble getting past Arvidsson, who incidentally, she played in the first round in 2007. Still, keep an eye out for nerves as that could be a telling indicator of the road ahead.
Ana Ivanovic in 2 sets
(5) Serena Williams vs. Ashley Harkleroad
Clay has never been America’s best surface, but at least this match will guarantee an American in the second round of play. Serena Williams should have new energy now that Henin is out of the picture because her goals of reclaiming the top spot look a little easier. Ashley Harkleroad can be unpredictable, but she proved her mettle by digging the United States out of a hole in the Fed Cup quarterfinals earlier this season. Harkleroad’s game is definitely on the upswing, but not strong enough to stop Serena.
Serena Williams in 2 sets
(15) Nicole Vaidisova vs. Iveta Benesova
I’ve always felt that clay is Vaidisova’s best surface, so this will be a good test for the young Czech. She is playing in her first Grand Slam since splitting with her coach and stepfather Alec Kodat, and is now working with David Felgate, the former coach of Britain’s Tim Henman.
Nicole Vaidisova in 3 sets
(19) Alize Cornet vs. Julia Vakulenko
With Amelie Mauresmo’s career in a slump and Marion Bartoli injured, the French have found a new woman to rally behind this season. Cornet’s breakthrough last week in Rome was inspiring, and although she lost in the final, she proved that she can play with (and beat) some of the world’s best on clay. If she does not succumb to the overwhelming pressure which has crippled Mauresmo and Co. in the past, Cornet will give her home fans a rare treat this year in Paris.
Alize Cornet in 2 sets
(Please go here to see Sunday’s complete schedule)
She Said What?
Justine Henin in her press conference on Saturday at Roland Garros:
“I don’t need to walk on the centre court to remember the emotions that I felt. They’re engraved in my heart and in my memory.
Everything that I wanted to happen in my career happened here at Roland Garros, and more than once. I really made the most of it, especially last year maybe because I felt that it would be the last time. I could never relive the wonderful experience of 2003 or last year. I have no regrets and I’m capable of moving on.
I don’t need to come back to Roland Garros. I’m very happy and proud of what I’ve achieved.”
What Else is Happening in Paris?
Pressure Free Mauresmo
For the first time in her career, Amelie Mauresmo feels no pressure at the French Open.
Still in love with tennis
Serena Williams has no plans to follow Justine Henin’s lead by retiring.
USA Television Schedule
Sunday, May 25, 2008
First Round - TTC - 5:00 am - 12:00 pm (LIVE)
Early Round Coverage Day #1 - ESPN2 - 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm (Taped)
All times are Eastern.
Don’t forget to enter On the Baseline’s Pick the Winner’s contest! The entry deadline for Sunday’s featured match is 4:00 am ET.
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