Monday signals the start of the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour’s final major tournament of the 2009 season.
Join On the Baseline throughout the fortnight for live coverage of the 2009 US Open and daily top 10 lists to keep you posted on all the action in New York City!
1. Parties, Parties, and more Parties
The top players in the world did not arrive early in New York City just to practice. Maria Sharapova, Kim Clijsters and Serena Williams are just a few of the women who have hit the red carpet over the past few days as they’ve participated in parties, sponsor appearances, and meet-and-greet opportunities with fans all over the city. Our friend Karen over at Global Village Tennis News has kept up with all the action, so be sure to check out her site for photos and news.
2. Dokic back in the saddle
Jelena Dokic will make her long-awaited return to the US Open this week. Dokic, who was one of the best stories of the Australian Open, is coming back to the Tour on Tuesday after a tough battle with mononucleosis. Dokic admitted on Saturday that her case of mono was so bad that she spent eight weeks on bed rest.
3. Clijsters back for good
Kim loves her life back on Tour so much that she has already decided to stick around in 2010. And not just 2010.
Clijsters told the press Saturday that not only is she aiming for next season, but also she hopes she “can do a couple more years or so.” Can we officially call this some of the best news we have heard in months?
4. Roof Report
In the wake of Tropical Storm Danny, the talk has once again started swirling about building a roof over Arthur Ashe Stadium. Not all the players agree that it is needed, most notably Serena Williams and Dinara Safina.
5. Upcoming Shopping Spree for Elena?
If Elena Dementieva were to win her first major next week, her prize money check will be doubly sweet. As the winner of the 2009 US Open Series, Elena will be competing for the largest payout in tennis history — $2.6 million ($1.6 million for winning the US Open and a $1 million bonus for winning the US Open and the Olympus US Open Series). Elena, you can do some serious shopping with that kind of cash in New York City.
6. Stars and Kids Rock the US Open
Entertainment and tennis stars alike turned out on Saturday for the annual Arthur Ashe Kid’s Day at the US Open. Actor Will Ferrell, Andy Roddick, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and Roger Federer teamed up for a hitting contest that raised over $60,000 dollars for charity. A good time was had by all—especially Serena who even twittered about how much fun she had.
7. Maria and Tiffany and Co. Set to Dazzle
Maria Sharapova will hit the courts of Flushing Meadows with a new pair of earrings. The latest in Sharapova’s Tiffany and Co. jewelry line was designed by architect Frank Gehry and will be worn by Maria during the tournament. Want a pair for the special female in your life? It will only set you back about $850.00.
8. Go Green with Venus
While you have your checkbook out, let Venus Williams help you promote a greener environment in the world—and tennis. The budding fashion designer has joined forces with the USTA to design the official Green Your Game t-shirt. Unlike Maria’s merchandise, Venus’ shirt is a bit more reasonably priced at $30.00.
9. Three Cheers for Ai
Ai Sugiyama might not advance past the first round after drawing fifteenth seed Samantha Stosur in the first round, but kudos still go to the Japanese veteran. Sugiyama, who turned pro in 1992, is appearing in her 62nd consecutive major. Now that is what we call consistency.
10. The Puppy Brigade
Life on the professional circuit can be lonely, but not if a player brings along (wo)man’s best friend! Check out this fun look at the unsung members of several tour entourages—-their adorable pooches.
VIDEO OF THE DAY
When faced with the choice between being a pianist or a tennis player, Jelena Jankovic tapped tennis. However, did she make the right decision?
FIRST ROUNDS ON MONDAY TO WATCH
Kim Clijsters never had a chance to defend her 2005 US Open title, but the USTA has made it up to her by giving her the honor of opening play in Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday against Viktoriya Kutuzova. Other matches to follow on the first day of play: Vera Dushevina vs. Venus Williams, Carly Gullickson vs. Jill Craybas, Samantha Stosur vs. Ai Sugiyama.
On the Baseline’s live coverage of the 2009 US Open is brought to you by Grand Slam Tennis Tours.
