1999: Year in review

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Dec 8, 1999

The Top 10 'Moments in Tennis' of 1999
It's hard to believe that it has already been a year. Time has flown by so quickly, it seems like we're preparing for the 2000 Australian Open just a couple of months after it ended it's 1999 offering. Then again, so much has happened this year that it really has been a fulfilling 12 months - definitely for the spectators and fans and most certainly for the players themselves. Here's my Top 10 in tennis for 1999 - feel free to post your own moments in tennis in my messages section.

1. All in one season - Steffi Graf's amazing comeback and retirement
Steffi's had numerous "Moments In Time", as she puts it, but what occurred this year was beyond phenomenal! In one of the most emotional victories ever, Steffi came back from all of the personal demons which had previously haunted her to win her 22nd grand slam singles title at Roland Garros! She did it in the most remarkable fashion by defeating the world's #1, #2 and #3 players in consecutive matches. Her professionalism and her athleticism were in full view of the Parisian spectators last June, who witnessed Graf's most memorable victory ever. She followed it up with a grand performance at Wimbledon, losing to Lindsay Davenport in the final, before deciding to end her career still at the top of the game. Steffi Graf - the best that tennis had to offer.

2. French Open finals
Undoubtedly the most scintillating match played in the last few years! One can watch tapes of it again and again and still be fascinated by the outcome - I know I have! It was so spectacular for a number of reasons. Firstly, it was an important final with a lot at stake. Secondly, it was played by two top players, Martina Hingis and Steffi Graf. Thirdly, the spectators had pit Graf as the odds-on crowd favourite while Hingis was left with a flurry of "boos" and whistles. Fourthly, it was absolutely high quality tennis from both players who contrast uniquely in playing styles. Lastly, it was incredibly intense, incredibly emotional and incredibly dramatic. Hingis was determined to achieve her goal of 1999, which was to win the French Open. Unfortunately, her determination allowed her temper to get the better of her, and eventually, her petulant side was in full exposition. This was contrasted by Steffi Graf, the ultimate professional, who went about her business, and in grand style, won the last grand slam title of her career.

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