French Open Preview: Day Seven
Posted by Aaress Lawless on May 30, 2008 | Print | Email | Bookmark | Free Subscription
The best Russian stars in the world, including world No. 1 Maria Sharapova, are set to headline day seven at the 2008 French Open.
Svetlana Kuznetsova, Elena Dementieva, Vera Zvonareva, Dinara Safina, and Nadia Petrova are among the players competing for berths in the round of sixteen.
Third seed Jelena Jankovic of Serbia is also scheduled to finish her third round match against Dominika Cibulkova, which was suspended because of darkness on Friday.
Aaress’ Picks for Saturday
(1) Maria Sharapova vs. (32) Karin Knapp
With the shocking dismissal of Venus and Serena Williams on Friday, only two former Grand Slam champions remain alive in the women’s field. Sharapova is the most experienced player left in the draw, but she looked very inconsistent and erratic during her first two wins. Two three-set matches in four days is more tennis than Sharapova would prefer to play in the opening rounds of a major. She’ll look to start aggressively against Knapp on Saturday and get off the court quickly for some rest before Monday’s round of sixteen.
Maria Sharapova in 2 sets
(4) Svetlana Kuznetsova vs. (25) Nadia Petrova
A year ago, this match would have been more interesting. Nadia Petrova’s ranking has dropped from inside the Top 15 to almost outside the Top 30. She brought a losing 2008 match record into Paris, something that is undoubtedly working on her already fragile nerves. She’ll have a chance to turn the season around with an upset over Kuznetsova, who does not particularly enjoy competing against her Russian countrywomen.
Svetlana Kuznetsova in 3 sets
She Said What?
Ana Ivanovic about Serena Williams’ third round upset:
“I was surprised to see the result. I didn’t see any of the match, obviously, because we played at the same time. But, you know, it’s a tough, tough loss for her, I guess. I’m sure she would be disappointed, because I thought coming into this tournament she was in very good shape.
So, yeah, it’s hard. I believe Srebotnik played a good match.”
What Else is Happening in Paris?
Moving On
Anna Chakvetadze has begun working with Justine Henin’s coach, Carlos Rodriguez.
Ana signs with Rolex
Ana Ivanovic has announced a new sponsorship deal with Rolex.
USA Television Schedule
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Third Round - TTC - 5:00 am - 1:00 pm (LIVE)
French Open on NBC Sports - NBC -1:00 pm - 4:00 pm (Taped)
All times are Eastern.
Don’t forget to enter On the Baseline’s Pick the Winner’s contest! The entry deadline for Saturday’s featured match is 4:00 am ET.
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Jelena Jankovic
Serena Williams
Dinara Safina
Elena Dementieva
Ana Ivanovic
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