Kim Clijsters steps up the gear to enter the semis at s-Hertogenbosch – Tennis Special
Former world number one, Kim Clijsters, trashed the 31-year-old Italian, Francesca Schiavone, to reach the semi-final stage of the UNICEF Open, contested in s-Hertogenbosch, Holland. She won the first set with ease posting scores of 6-3 and booked a spot in the last four by winning the second set tie-breaker 7-6(7).
A battle that lasted an hour and 39 minutes witnessed some breathtaking strokes from both contestants. The Belgian superstar started off with a serve hold and had an opportunity to break serve in the following game but squandered it. However, she was able to convert the second breakpoint in her favour taking a lead of 3-1 in the opening set.
It was not long when she held her serve for the third straight time and posted a resounding lead of 4-1. Former French Open Champion from Italy, Schiavone, hardly tested her rival once in the final game of the opening set. Apart from that, it was all about the 53rd ranked Belgian who has registered a cracking comeback to the tennis circuit after a major injury layoff.
It was the 13th occurrence when these two players had come face-to-face. Clijsters had always reigned supreme over the 26th ranked Italian, except once when Schiavone was awarded walkover due to an injury to the Belgian. So, technically the Italian had never won a match against Clijsters and that psychological pressure must have played its part in the downfall of the veteran.
The second set was full of energy but witnessed no breakthroughs at all. Ironically, the Italian had six opportunities to break serve compared to just one of her rival but squandered all of them; failing to make a mark and prove her worth. The tie-breaker was enforced and Clijsters just inched ahead in the battle; winning a late mini-break that dismissed all chances of any comeback from the Italian.
Commenting about the match, she stated, “Me and Francesca always have a battle and the match was a lot closer than two sets suggests - I really had play consistent in the second set and not make many mistakes in the tie-break. Francesca is a tough opponent who has lots of experience so I am really pleased to win this match."
Talking about her next opponent, Urszula Radwanska from Poland, she added, “I'm feeling better each match and Urszula will be a tough opponent. I know she has come back from injuries so that is great to see her doing well again." Radwanska ousted the Swede star, Sofia Arvidsson, to book a date with the Belgian.
The Belgian superstar looks in great touch; loving her time at the grass court surface. It is good for her and gaining form just before the start of the year’s third Grand Slam Champion, Wimbledon, has boosted her chances to grand yet another major title to her tally. There is no doubt on her capabilities; the only thing that can stop her is the injuries that have been troubling her for quite some time.
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