Heather Watson admits of poor start to her 2012 season – Tennis News
British number one, Heather Watson, revealed that she made a drastic start to her 2012 season. She exited in opening or qualifying rounds from several tournaments before seeking her rhythm.
The British contender made a terrible start this year after standing outside the Top 100 in the WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) Premier Rankings. She fell on a four-match losing streak including an opening round exit from the Australian Open. However, Watson
re-focused at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami where she made a third round showing before bowing to world number one Victoria Azarenka.
She then made second round appearances in the clay court seasons before finding her rhythm on grass. Watson made third round appearances at the AEGON Classic in Birmingham and the Wimbledon Championships, eventually cracking the Top 100.
After losing in the London Olympics, the Brit fell to another four match losing streak. However, she remained focused and snapped out from it at the Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo.
Watson then went berserk at the HP Japan Women’s Open in Osaka. She ruled throughout the tournament and subsequently conquered the event. As a result, Watson became first British woman to capture a WTA singles title since 1988.
"I went on a four-match losing streak, which had never happened to me before. I just got really depressed... I went through a really bad period. Eventually I managed to get myself out of it, with a decent week in Miami. But it was one of the lowest points
I've ever had playing tennis.”
The 20-year-old revealed that removing her mother from coaching her changed her momentum. Her decision helped her a lot and she was able to focus on her game more. Watson reflected, "Sometimes it's better for my mum just to be a mum, rather than trying to
coach and getting too closely involved. It was essentially us just arguing all the time. That didn't help my mental state. By myself, I'm able to focus much better.”
Currently standing at her career best rank at number 49, Watson is looking forward to carry her rhythm in the upcoming season.
Tags: