The New American Idol

Those fearing the dark prospects of American tennis finally got something to cheer about, as their brightest upcoming star made another step in her quest for glory with a stunning victory over Petra Kvitova in the third round at Indian Wells. In a time when American players are few and not very well ranked, young Christina McHale is among the few that are standing out. She improved tremendously in the last year, her best results coming during the hardcourt season when she beat world number one Caroline Wozniacki, as well as Marion Bartoli. 

If twelve months ago she needed a wildcard to participate at Indian Wells, this year it was a completely different story for the 19 years old. A firmly established figure in the top 40, not only was she the highest ranked American entering the event, but she was also seeded. However, as the 32nd favourite, Christina's odds to advance deep into the draw were low, especially after being drawn to face Petra Kvitova in the third round. The reigning Wimbledon champion started their clash in imperious fashion, cruising through the first set, 6-2. A string of unforced errors were enough to derail her game though and the American took full advantage. Ensuring a break in the early stages of the second set, she went on to win five consecutive games, taking the encounter in the decider. When at her best, Kvitova is probably the best player in the world. Nevertheless, from time to time her level drops so low that practically anyone stands a chance of beating her. Something similar happened now. While McHale gave nothing away, she scattered shots off the court, allowing her opponent to take full control over the match. At 1-4 down in the third, she threatened to come back, holding a point for leveling at 4 all. Nonetheless, the errors kept flowing and the American sealed a stunning victory at the first time of asking.

Even though Petra was far below par, credit goes to Christina was playing exceptionally well. Her shots were extremely accurate, pushing her opponent deep behind the baseline and her serve was astonishing. Although many would argue that the Czech lost the match, I think that the American won it. She played smart, took her chance and ended up frustrating her rival. Overall, I was really impressed with her level. If she can continue this kind of form, and from what I've seen so far, I think she can, Christina McHale might well be exactly what American women's tennis needs. After the sudden faltering of teen sensation Melanie Oudin, the Americans are putting together a solid squad with McHale, Sloane Stephens, Jamie Hampton, Irina Falconi or Coco Vandeweghe hoping to emulate the success of Evert, Capriati, Seles, the Williams sisters or Lindsay Davenport.

Petra Kvitova was far below her best during an erratic display against McHale, losing 6-2,2-6,3-6 in the third round at Indian Wells.

photos: GETTY IMAGES