She's Simply The Best

It should come to no surprise that Serena Williams is considered by many the best player in the world. However, the all time great wastes no opportunity to remind everyone just how good she really is.

Having dominated the second half of the season, Serena took time out after her Flushing Meadow triumph to regroup after a busy summer. Judging by the superbly toned body she displayed when she walked the red carpet at the WTA Championships in Istanbul, it seems she had worked out intensely in the break, wowing everyone with her stunning look. The extremely fit American started slow, but she quickly proved she's no match for her opponents. She recorded relatively easy wins over Angelique Kerber and Na Li, securing thus a semifinal berth. In a battle that would determine the red group winner, Serena faced her biggest threat, world number 1 Victoria Azarenka. As she does on so many dangerous occasions, Williams lifted her game. Relying on her booming serve, she got herself out of trouble, dismissing the Belorussian 6-4,6-4 to state her authority over women's tennis.

In the semis, in a rematch of the Wimbledon final earlier this year, Serena took full advantage of a physically drained Radwanska to clinch her place in the grand finale. Hoping to end a magnificent 2012 on a high, the American was utterly determined to add a third WTA Championships crown to her impressive resume. Playing at the best of her abilities, she gave Maria Sharapova no chance at all. Although the Russian improved since they last met in the Olympic final, she could not cope with her opponent's inspired display. Struggling on her serve, Sharapova eventually bowed out 4-6,3-6.

"I wanted it so bad, but I didn't want to say it," confessed an excited Serena. "For my own sanity I really wanted it, even though I didn't need it. I really wanted to end on a good note." Having won basically all the big prizes since the French Open, the younger Williams looks set to challenge Azarenka for the No. 1 ranking in 2013. 

Serena Williams proved she was no match at the moment, winning the WTA Championships in Istanbul without losing a set all week. In the final she beat Russian Maria Sharapova 6-4,6-3 to claim her third title at the event.

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Doubles Joy for Kirilenko and Petrova

A week ago they were battling out for the last remained seat, but two matches into the competition and Maria Kirilenko and Nadia Petrova run away with the biggest doubles title of their careers, winning the WTA Championships in Istanbul. 

It was a tense couples of months for the Russians, as with Maria's injury blow, their place at the Season Ending Championships was seriously threatened by Americans Raquel Kops-Jones and Abigail Spears. There was such a small margin separating the two teams, as they had to go head-to-head in order to determine who goes to Istanbul. Cheered by a partisan Moscow crowd, last Saturday the home favourites won the semifinal clash at the Kremlin Cup to book a last minute ticket to Turkey.

With only the best four teams present at the prestigious event, the Russians had to play their best tennis in order to challenge their opponents. And they surely did so, especially after being completely blown off court by Italians Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci in  the opening set of their semifinal match. Kirilenko and Petrova recovered though at the start of the second act when they took the initiative. They became more aggressive and started dictating the play, managing thus to level the dispute, before securing a superb victory with a brilliantly played tie-break. Things were less difficult in the final, as they faced Czechs Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka. The latter, runner-ups at Wimbledon, the Olympics and the US Open, were unable to cope with the inspired performance of their rivals, bowing out 1-6,4-6. 

While Petrova has won the tournament back in 2004 with Meghann Shaughnessy, for Kirilenko this was one of the biggest triumphs of her career. She caps a magnificent 2012 season in both singles and doubles. In singles she lost two finals, in Pattaya and New Haven, got to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon and reached her highest ranking at number 12 before the US Open. In doubles, she and Petrova won the bronze medal at London's Olympic Games and were runner-ups at the French Open. The duo will continue their partnership next year when they will seek their first Grand Slam success.

Maria Kirilenko and Nadia Petrova took full advantage of their last-minute ticket to Istanbul by winning the title, their biggest success together. In the final, the Russian duo overcame Czechs Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka 6-1,6-4.

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Exhausted Azarenka Crowned the 2012 Queen

After a sensational 2012, Victoria Azarenka secured the year-end number 1 ranking by making the semis at the WTA Championships in Istanbul. The Belorussian had a stunning season winning six title, amid them her first Grand Slam in Australia, made the US Open final, which she lost to Serena Williams, plus she got the Olympic gold medal in mixed-doubles, with Max Mirnyi, and bronze in singles. 

Riding on a 13 match winning streak, 26-0 in sets, Azarenka was one of the huge favourites coming into the event. Judging by the kind of form that saw her claim back-to-back titles in Beijing and Linz, it was hard to believe anyone except for her arch nemesis, Serena Williams, could trouble her. However, Victoria's campaign got off to a surprising start when Angelique Kerber hold two match points in the her first round robin clash. Showing just why she is the best player in the world, she fought back pushing the set into a tie-break, before ensuring a marathon 6-7,7-6,6-4 triumph. The effort took its toll though, as the Belorussian found it physically difficult to carry on. She lost in straight sets to Serena, although she had her chances, especially in the second act, and had to dug herself out of the rabbit hole to overcome the erratic Na Li who was threatening to cause the upset.

Her come-from-behind victory against the Chinese saw her give away her last fight and although she usually dominates Sharapova, this time the Russian was the strongest. Despite her semifinal loss, Azarenka did enough this week to ensure she will finish the year as the highest ranked player in the world. Congratulation to Victoria for her stunning year and for developing into such a great champion. Hopefully she will accomplish even greater things next year, in 2013.

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Tennis Moods Style: The 2012 Istanbul Fashion Week

At the end of a gruelling 2012, the best eight players in the world got to cap a magnificent season with a trip to the Season-Ending WTA Championships in Istanbul. For the second year running, the Turkish capital was host to a magnificent week of tennis, which saw Vika Azarenka, Maria Sharapova, Serena Williams, Aga Radwanska, Petra Kvitova, Angelique Kerber, Na Li, and Sara Errani battle it out for ultimate glory. 

However, this week was not entirely about tennis. In addition to going head-to-head on the court, the WTA divas have also disputed the Best Dressed award, providing a veritable fashion runway at the Draw Ceremony on Sunday, October 21. It came down to the wire, but Serena once more outclassed Azarenka to restore her reign also in the fashion department. However, Victoria is making huge progresses lately, becoming one of the most consistently well-inspired fashionistas.

Victoria Azarenka (Belarus)

Probably the sharpest look at the Draw Ceremony was Victoria's who dazzled the audience in a form fitting black jumpsuit. The world number 1 showed plenty of class, styling her outfit perfectly with a slick ponytail and a pair of oversized earrings. Her on-court look was also inspired, with a plus for the dark grey - light yellow mix. Although she does not have her own Nike label, the Belorussian added the only bit of glamour to Nike's mainstream fall collection.

Maria Sharapova

If some dressed up, Maria Sharapova dressed down. The Russian, one of the most veritable fashionistas in the game, wore an angelic white mini dress, which she matched with oversized mustard blazer. Although the pieces are great and they create an exquisite look, I feel she should have stepped up a notch and wore something a bit more fancy. This was more of a day look, than a red carpet one. However, my main issue with Sharapova lately is her on-court attire. Most of the times, it is really boring and not flattering. I miss the creative queen of the tutus that ruled tennis fashion some years ago.

Serena Williams

Serena has been on fire since July and she capped the momentum in a femme fatale red mini dress. The big hairdo, the leopard shoes, everything was pure perfection as the stunning American stepped on the red carpet. She also looked flawless on court. The sleeveless polo and the peplum inspired skirt are cool, actual pieces that perfectly showcase the American's sexy curves.

Agnieszka Radwanska

Agnieszka Radwanska does not stand out on a regular basis, but the Pole proves to have an impeccable fashion taste with every appearance. Her princess dress is actually extremely current, transparency being one of the major trends at the moment. The nude pink colour is really cool, though the front of the design makes it resemble a night gown. Also, although sponsored by Lotto, the Pole has already found clothes that seem well-made, expensive and pleasantly looking. The fucsia-peach mix is a bit too intense for me though.

Petra Kvitova

Last year's titlist took a great decision when she opted for a red mini dress, which by the way looked stunning on her. The look was ruined by the ugly black sandals though. Plus, I am wary of the red-black mix, as it can be cheap and vulgar. Though I liked Azarenka's on court attire, I am really unimpressed by Petra's version. I find the floral print on a white pattern tacky and I think the only version that works is having it on a darker background, such as grey.

Sara Errani (Italy)

Hoping to make an impression at her first WTA Championships appearance, Sara Errani went over the top with a wedding-ish purple dress. Her long gown, though elegant, seems a bit too sophisticated for the event. She was similar Nike clothes with Azarenka, Kvitova and Na Li.

WTA Championships debutant, Angelique Kerber was hoping to steal the show in this black gown. However, as with Errani, she did not succeed. The same issue as the Italian, the dress is too elegant, too sophisticated for the event. Probably something more of a cocktail party dress would have worked better.

Na Li (China)

Na Li was another player to opt for a lbd. Though the dress is relatively boring, the styling is edgy with a huge plus for the big wristwatch. The nude platforms are a safe choice in this combination, although a more vibrant colour would have been a killer hit. The Chinese's on-court garments are relatively pretty dull and this one makes no exception. Taken from the same mainstream Nike fall collection, the top part is the blue version of Kvitova's attire.

Marion Bartoli (France)

Second alternative, Marion Bartoli was boho-chic in a lbd which she styled with a stunning black pair of high-heels ankle boots and a white shall. The Frenchwoman is proving to be a little fashionista as she reveals her upbeat personality at the Draw Ceremony in Istanbul.

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Time To Say Goodbye: 'El Mosquito' Juan Carlos Flies Away

Living in the Nadal Era, many tend to forget the power of the Spanish tennis even before the ultimate clay-court king became the worldwide superstar he is now. The likes of Bruguera, Moya, Corretja or Albest Costa are lost within the tunnel of time as Nadal's fame has grown to outlived all his precursors. However, before Nadal, there was another great Spanish champion, a former clay-court king and one of the most important contributors to the rise of the modern Spanish tennis powerhouse. 

A worthy successor of Carlos Moya and Alex Corretja, Juan Carlos Ferrero established himself early as a clay-court prodigy by reaching the semis at the French Open on his 2000 debut. Having beaten the likes of Mariano Puerta, Mark Philippoussis and Alex Corretja, Juan ended up losing a marathon match against eventual champion, Brazilian Gustavo Kuerten. His breakthrough year was 2001 when he capped a magnificent clay-court season with titles in Estoril, Barcelona, and Rome, his first Masters 1000 crown. He also reached his second consecutive semifinal at Roland Garros, succumbing once again to Kuerten. 

The French Open became his favourite tournament. He got to love the Parisian courts dearly, as it was here where he shone the brightest. In 2002, after a sensational campaign with wins over Guillermo Coria, Gaston Gaudio, Andre Agassi and Marat Safin, he reached the final. Probably the nerves of disputing his first Grand Slam final got the best of him as he unable to bring his best game into the match, granting the victory to his more experienced compatriot, Albert Costa. Paris did not see the end of him though, as the Spaniard was back to seal the deal a year later. In 2003 he was not to be denied. He avenged his loss to Costa in the semis, before blowing surprise package, Dutchman Martin Verkerk, off the court to claim his maiden Grand Slam title. It was a moment of ultimate glory for Ferrero who, after losing the US Open final to Andy Roddick, went on to become the 21st player to hold the World No. 1 ranking. He was also the second Spaniard to achieve the feat after Carlos Moya.

Despite making the semis in Melbourne, 2004 marked the beginning of the end for Juan Carlos. Injuries and a severe lack of form took their toll and, by the end of the year, the Spaniard was ranked outside the top 30. Some miserable seasons followed and it wasn't until 2009 that he managed to win another ATP crown. It happened at a small venue, in Casablanca, where he defeated Frenchman Florent Serra for the title. 

2010 saw a rejuvenation from the once king of clay. A vintage display during the Latin American swing enabled him to win back-to-back titles in Buenos Aires and Costa do Sauipe, to which he added a final in Acapulco. The last trophy of his career came in 2011 in Stuttgart, when he overcame his compatriot Pablo Andujar to collect his 15th crown.

Ferrero was also a solid rock for his country in all official team competitions. He played in 17 Davis Cup ties, compiling a 18-6 record in singles rubbers and helped Spain to its first triumph in the competition in 2000, as well as to subsequent victories in 2004 and 2009.

The Spaniard announced his retirement on September 12 and chose to end his magnificent career in Valencia. "It’s the best possible stage for me to retire,” he said. “Because of injuries, I was not able to play a full season and it’s been a complicated year as I could see I didn’t have the same ambition after 14 years on the tour.” Although he lost his first round clash with good friend Nicolas Almagro, Juan Carlos remained upbeat about his performance. “I simply want to thank everyone for all their support, not just this year but throughout all the years I have played here. It’s always been a very special tournament for me and this year even more so.”

Still mourning the retirement of Kim Clijsters and Andy Roddick, tennis losses another one of its legends. The Spaniard does not intent to stay away from the game though. He will continue his work with his foundation, "La Fundación de la Comunidad Valenciana Juan Carlos Ferrero", which promotes sports for youth in and around Valencia and he hopes to one day lead his country to another Davis Cup triumph.

Although the favourite, Juan Carlos lost his first Grand Slam final,  at the 2002 French Open. He was defeated 1-6,0-6,6-4,3-6 by his compatriot, Albert Costa.

Having failed on his previous attempt, Ferrero made it second time lucky, overcoming Dutch surprise Martin Verkerk 6-1,6-3,6-2 to conquer his sole Grand Slam at Roland Garros in 2003.

2003 was a sensational year for the Spaniard. In addition to winning in Paris he also got to the finals in New York. It wasn't to be though, as he lost the Flushing Meadows final to American Andy Roddick.

A solid rock in Spain's Davis Cup squad, Ferrero lead his country to its first success in 2000 and subsequent victories in 2004 and 2009.

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Venus Comes Alive in Luxembourg

In a time when many were quick to write the Williams sisters off, Venus and Serena responded in true champion style, proving they have no intention of hanging up the racquet anytime soon. First, it was Serena who dominated the second half of the season with titles at Wimbledon, the Olympics and the US Open. Then the Williamses teamed up to win Wimbledon and their third Olympic gold medal. However, Venus was yet to confirm in singles. Although she had some greats wins under her belt, she was unable to win another trophy. Luckily for the American she signed up to play in Luxembourg. 

Unseeded at the start of the tournament, Venus ran into troubles when she faced nine-seeded Mona Barthel in the second round. The German played a great match, but the American was able to advance after a thrilling 7-6,6-4 triumph. It was just the beginning of a battling week for Venus though. In the quarters, Roberta Vinci, the world's best doubles player, did not go out without a fight as she tested Williams before finally bowing out 6-7,4-6. Probably the stiffest test though came in the semis however, where a rejuvenated Andrea Petkovic showed glimpses of the form that brought her a place inside the top 10. The German won a thrilling opener, before the American came back to secure a hard fought 6-7,6-4,6-4 win. 

Playing her first final since 2010, Venus was determined to not let this chance slip away. She was all fired up against Romanian Monica Niculescu, who was unable to cope with the power and precision of her opponent. Williams closed out a routine 6-2,6-3 victory, collecting thus the 44th title of her career, but first since Acapulco in the spring of 2010.

Venus is all smiles after winning the 44th title of her career. After battling her way to the final, the American crushed Romanian Monica Niculescu 6-2,6-3 to provide a fairytale ending to the 2012 season.

photos (top-down): AP, ?

Wozniacki's Russian Roulette

Coming into 2012 as the world number 1, Caroline Wozniacki has endured a pretty miserable season as she witnessed helplessly how she was striped of all her possessions. First, she lost the top spot to Victoria Azarenka, then all of her WTA crowns and eventually, she dropped out of the top 10 after a disappointing first round loss at Wimbledon. 

Things took a positive turn at the start of the Asian swing though, as the Dane ended a one year title drought by winning in Seoul. She followed that up with a promising performance in Tokyo, at the Pan Pacific Open, where she stunned old foe Na Li before succumbing to Agnieszka Radwanska in the quarters.
A last minute entry at the Premier event in Moscow, Wozniacki started strong, overcoming the younger Radwanska, Urszula, 6-1,6-3 to book a last eight meeting with defending champion, Dominika Cibulkova. The Slovak has always troubled the Dane, but on this occasion the latter proved the strongest. Caroline recovered after a second set hiccup, to cruise through the decider and serve out a 6-2,6-7,6-1 victory. A similar story unfolded during her semifinal clash with Swede Sofia Arvidsson. Wozniacki won the opener and had opportunities to close out the match in two sets, but Arvidsson fought back to push a decider. After the duo exchanged several breaks, it was the former world number 1 who sealed the win and booked her spot in the final.
The final showdown with former US Open champion, Sam Stosur, was a great reflection of Caroline's recent rejuvenation. Having lost three of the five previous encounters with the Aussie, she hanged in tough after the loss of the second act, 'annoying' her opponent with her exquisite defensive skills.  Serving to stay in the match at 5-6 in the decider, Stosur cracked under pressure allowing the Dane to break and run away with the title.
With two crowns in as many months and several wins against some of her toughest rivals, Wozniacki looks to have found the peace and inner stability that took to the top of the rankings two years ago. Her game is still lacking a vital weapon, but her consistency and excellent passive-aggressive display can challenge most of the top players. She is surely looking forward to starting anew in 2013, and most importantly to fulfilling her promise of regaining her top spot.

In a nail-bitting final in Moscow, Caroline Wozniacki edged Sam Stosur 6-2,4-6,7-5 to conquer her biggest title since winning New Haven in 2011. Having gone titleless for more than a year, the Dane turned her season around, collecting her second trophy in as many months.

photos (top-down): Reuters, Kremlin Cup, AFP, GETTY IMAGES

The Dancing Queen

Hoping to match her perfect start to the season, Victoria Azarenka has been building quite a run of form lately. After her dramatic loss to Serena in the US Open final, the world number 1 has been invincible, winning the title in Beijing before cruising through the draw in Linz to collect her second title in as many weeks. 

On her first trip to Linz, Victoria was utterly dominant on court and extremely jovial off court, the Belorussian doing double duty this week. In addition to destroying her opponents, she focused on entertaining the Austrian crowd, doing a little bit of LMFAO dancing, blowing kisses to the spectators and engaging in lengthy interviews.

Azarenka's route to the final was pretty straightforward, as she did not lose no more than four games in any of her four matches. And things seemed to follow the same scenario in the championship match, as she built a 6-3,5-0 lead against Julia Goerges. However, the German caught fire at that stage and, relying on some inspired shot making, she saved four match points, reeling off four straight games to get herself back into the set. Azarenka did not despair though and seized her opportunity, breaking Julia's serve to close out the match.

Although she stumbled a bit at the end, Victoria's week has been impressive. She is now 13-0 since Flushing Meadows, 26-0 in sets, and judging by the kind of form she's in, the Belorussian is one of the heavy favourites for the WTA Championships title in Istanbul, where she is last year's runner up.

Although she lost the final, Julia Goerges put in a brave display. She might have gotten into the match a bit too late, but at 3-6,0-5 the German caught fire, reeling off four straight games and seriously challenging the world number 1 before Azarenka was able to close out the match at the fifth time of asking.

photos (top-down): AP, GETTY IMAGES, Ralf Reinecke