You know, I think my job would be a lot easier if I could just start liking Sharapova’s game. Or her personality. But I just can’t. Granted, I haven’t tried all that hard but why waste effort after foolishness?

In other injury news, Andy Murray pulled out of the Valencia Open late this past week after picking up a virus. Bummer dude.

Post from: EveryJoe

Sharapova Wins First Clay Court Title

There were moments of brilliance. A wicked cross-court backhand winner. A low bouncing forehand down the line. But they were fleeting – oh so fleeting. Obviously I have a few things to work on and now that the sun is finally out, maybe I can get out more often.

In other news, Lindsay Davenport withdrew from the Bausch & Lomb Championships due to fever and aches. She was scheduled to play Maria Sharapova in the semifinals. Now that would have been a match I’d like to have seen considering how well Davenport has been playing lately. Ah well – health before beating Sharapova I always say.

Post from: EveryJoe

Davenport withdraws from tournament

Three set and three and a half hours later, Sharapova had survived a clay court test. It was just the thing she had been looking for – and probably needing – but it almost had a different outcome than she wanted.

Sharapova won the first set 7-6(3), lost the second 5-7 and then won the third 7-6(1). A lot of close sets for something that could have had the same outcome in less time…obviously. A win can always come quicker, better and easier.

Sharapova is the top-ranked player left in the tournament. Amelie Mauresmo is through to the quarterfinals after a hairy 3-6, 7-5, 7-6(6) three-setter. I’d forgotten Mauresmo was still playing on the courts; she’s been utterly non-existant for the past couple years.

And Lindsay Davenport is through to the quarterfinals in a three-set match as well, albeit a little easier one (6-4, 3-6, 6-4). Evidently taking the game the distance was the order of business at Amelia Island.

Post from: EveryJoe

Sharapova Survives Scare at Bausch & Lomb Championships