Quietly, without stirring too many waters, Simona Halep is building a strong reputation as someone to look out for on the WTA tour. Keeping a clear head, while playing some very aggressive tennis, Simona negotiated her way through the Moscow draw to collect the fifth crown of her breakthrough season.
Although she is a former Roland Garros junior champion, these results were achieved basically overnight, ignited by her dream run at the Italian Open. Nowhere was an indication of what was about to follow, and no one could quite predict Simona's stunning second half of the year. During this period the Romanian beat a slew of top players, won five tournaments, made the fourth round at the US Open, and reached a career-high No.14 in the rankings.
In Moscow, Halep once again sent a clear signal to her rivals that she is a real threat. A counterpuncher turned into an utterly aggressive opponent, the Romanian proved too much to handle for big names like Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Australian Sam Stosur, beating them in a convincing manner. She played her relaxed, beautiful tennis, and managed to win the title without dropping a set.
Because she is such a modest person, the Romanian is not an immediate stand-out, although her performances would entitle her to assume a more prominent position in women's tennis. To me, the most amazing thing about Halep is her effortless display. When she is playing she has such an ease, such a naturalness about her that makes it a pleasure to watch she. Her consistently good results proved she is no fluke, so I expect to see and hear more of her in the future. I am positive she will reach higher heights next season.
Although she started her assault too late to really stand a chance of qualifying for the Season-Ending Championships in Istanbul, Simona has qualified for the Tournament of Champions in Sofia starting next week. Considering the solid form she showcased in the last couple of months, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Romanian run away with that title also.
photo: GETTY IMAGES
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