Former World No. 1 Serena Williams defeated Marion Bartoli for her first title since her comeback after a long year of injuries and illnesses. The American eased past the Frenchwoman after coming from behind in the first set, and earning the Bank of the West Classic title on Sunday with a score of 7-5 6-1.
“You can see the growth in her game, and also she’s such a nice person. Thank you for being sweet. That’s really nice.”, Serena said about Marion at the trophy presentation.
Going into the tournament, Williams was No. 169 in the world, but after beating top players such as Sharapova and Bartoli, her ranking has lifted to No. 79 in the world.
“I hated those triple digits. Now I’ve got to get to single digits.”, Serena said, chuckling, about her ranking.
ongratulations, Serena!
And welcome back to the winner’s circle!
After she has won the Italian Open, which is the biggest clay-court title yet of her career, Maria Sharapova proves to be back again!
In the final of the tournament in Rome, Sharapova faced Samantha Stosur. After a three-hour rain delay, Sharapova swept the first four games, playing aggressively and consistently throughout. The top-spinning Australian was not in her best form, as the Russian was eager to capture the title and did so in a quick fashion, beating Stosur with a score of 6-2 6-4, in 1 hour and 23 minutes.
This is blissful news for Sharapova, since the French Open is a week ahead and she is looking to perform well in the only Grand Slam that she hasn’t won.
“I’m so excited to be able to be champion of this tournament,” said former world number one Sharapova.
Congrats, Sharapova! Wishing you luck in Paris!
As we mentioned in the French Open preview here on The Tennis Times there is always a big upset at Roland Garros. This year at the French Open was no different with Philipp Kohlschreiber the number 29 seed defeating World No. 4 Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros on Saturday.
“I think I played really one of the best matches ever in a big tournament,” said Kohlschreiber. “In the past I’ve played well in small tournaments, but this one was for sure, every set really on the biggest high level from my side. Maybe Novak didn’t play his best today but from my point of view, I played a good match. I was controlling or dictating many, many points. I did a really good job today.”
