Spotlight on the WTA

Here is an update from the professional world of women’s tennis.

When Serena is away, Sharapova is at play

Recent major headline makers have surely been Serena and Sharapova.  Serena for her commendable response to the hideous remarks by Nastase and her recent sighting at Met Gala event where she looked ravishing in her mom-to-be avatar; whereas the other lady for the promotion, and welcome received for returning to the tour after completing her doping ban.  And, had I not been an avid follower of tennis, the marketing campaign to welcome and felicitate Sharapova upon her comeback after a doping ban would have easily fooled me into believing that she was probably a war hero returning home after serving lengthy incarceration in enemy territory.  My thoughts on this entire Sharapova episode are summed up in these five simple lines below.

How low can the WTA fall

to prop up a fallen star?

And allow today’s profits

to not only disrespect the sport,

but also make others look so small

The winners’ circle

Laura Siegemund won the Stuttgart Open in Germany by beating, in a hard fought close encounter, Kristina Mladenovic 7-5 in the third set tie-break.  Kristina was not only brave enough to speak openly against Miss Sharapova’s doping exploits last year but also came up with an inspired win against her in the semifinals last week.  Laura played exceptionally well to win the tournament but Kristina won more than her fair share of hearts and fans by taking down Sharapova who wanted to blur the lines between right and wrong through a comeback victory.

Elina Svitolina beat Elise Mertens to claim the Istanbul Open in Turkey.   Elina is enjoying a great 2017 season so far and this happens to be her third tournament win this year after her victory over Wozniacki in the Dubai finals and her title win in the Taiwan Open.  She also reached the top 10 rankings in 2017 and won both her rubbers against Australia in the Fed Cup.  We expect even bigger and better performances over the course of this year from Elina.

Justine Henin announces birth of her second child

Justine Henin announced the birth of her second child, a baby boy she has name Victor.  We congratulate Henin and wish the very best for her and both her children.