Monica Seles: The heart and grit of the WTA Tour: Monica Seles seems to be at the crossroads in her career by reaching that “shape up or ship out” point. The beginning of the season looked as if she was shipping out, having suffered a chronic stress fracture to her foot. However, she shaped up and got into some of the best form of her career during the American hardcourt season, beating the likes of Capriati, Hingis, Serena Williams and Henin. She currently rides a 13 match winning streak from her efforts in Asia at the end of the season.
Player of the Year: Lindsay Davenport? It seemed the most unlikely of scenarios since following the US Open, Davenport trailed Capriati, Hingis and Venus Williams in the Sanex Championships race. Nevertheless, Davenport played the indoor season with a bang, capturing three consecutive titles, but unfortunately ended it with an injury. In recording a consistent season, Davenport captured the #1 ranking on the last week of the season (the only time she had captured the top ranking in 2001). Not having even reached a Grand Slam final, she had the pundits criticising the ranking system and possibly caused for the subsequent revamping of the points system.
The Ericcson Open Final: It was a fitting final, pitting the two would-be best performers on the WTA tour this season. Capriati held 8 match points on Williams in the third set but could not convert thanks. Williams won 4-6 6-1 7-6 which seemed to set the tone for their encounters throughout the rest of the season, each won by Williams in straight sets.
The arrival of the Belgians: Thanks to the talents of teen queens Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters, Belgium is a major force in women’s tennis, confirmed with their first Fed Cup title. Both girls, finishing the year in the Top 10, reached a Grand Slam final this season and having gained a world of experience this season, they have set their marks as top contenders on the tour. It will be interesting to follow their progress throughout 2002.
Go To Page: 1 2
