Old Fox Serena Still Reigns Supreme

It's clear to me that a miracle doesn't happen every day—that's why it's called a miracle. When Simona Halep destroyed world No.1 Serena Williams in their round robin match, the world was quick to announce the emergence of a new queen. The Romanian had played fabulous tennis in her first two clashed losing a total of seven games against Serena (6-0,6-2) and Canadian darling, Eugenie Bouchard (6-2,6-3). Courteosy of the result, she was guaranteed a place in the semis independent on the outcome of her final clash with Ana Ivanovic. However, should she had lost to the Serb in straight sets, her biggest rival, i.e. Serena, would exit the competition and Ivanovic would go through. 

The situation was tricky. On one hand you don't want to give Serena a chance at revenge, but on the other hand you want to win the battle on court and dot want to get involved in strategic calculations—or need be, do you? The confusion was such that it completely derailed Simona. She "chose" the worst option: she lost to Ivanovic in three sets. It's easy to do the shoulda-woulda-coulda now, but in my view a true champion should be smart and make the most of his/her opportunities. What followed was the most natural of scenarios: Halep crushed Radwanska in the semis, Serena struggled against bestie Wozniacki, and the two got to meet again in the championship showdown.

Simona was overconfident that she can beat Williams again. She started strong breaking her opponent to seize an early lead. What she didn't consider is that the American is the fiercest competitor out there and that she's at her best when she feels she has nothing to lose. In a fracture of a second, she turned things around going to serve out a devastating 6-3,6-0 victory to three-peat at the Season's Ending WTA Championships.

"She was playing so well in the first set, like she did the last time we played," Williams said. "I was literally on the side of the court and I laughed. But then I just told myself I had nothing to lose. I knew I just had to relax and start playing better if I wanted to win—and I really wanted to win."

"It's just been an unbelievable week," Williams confessed. "I just started training again last week because I had such a bad knee in Beijing. I can't believe I even made it to Singapore, and now I have the Billie Jean King Trophy, so I'm just really excited."

To add to the celebration, Serena also clinched the year-end No.1 spot this week, for the second season running, straightening her reign as the WTA's leading lady. In 2014, the American didn't have things quite her way, having to wait until the US Open to make a Grand Slam quarterfinals. However, she won in New York and she retained the No.1 ranking throughout the season. With the emergence of the young guns, it remains to be seen if she can maintain her dominance in 2015. My guess is that Serena will not go away any time soon. 

In their round robin match, Simona Halep destroyed Serena, stunning the world No.1 6-0,6-2.

Courtesy of the results this week, Serena clinched the year-end No.1 trophy for the second season running.

When the two met again in the final, Serena was better prepared. She returned the favour, quickly dismissing Halep 6-3,6-0 to three-peat at the WTA Championships in Singapore. 

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Serena Wraps Up Extraterrestrial Year

Despite some glimpses of brilliance from Azarenka throughout the year, Serena still remains the dominant figure in women's tennis. Since winning Wimbledon in 2012, the American was practically unstoppable. The defeats were few and unimportant, as she went on to collect four Grand Slam titles, two Season-Ending Championships crowns, as well as two Olympic gold medals in the time span. 

She reclaimed the world No.1 ranking in February, in Doha, becoming thus the oldest player to achieve the feat. The success whet her appetite, and the American began playing more to consolidate the position. She contested 15 tournaments, the most she's played in her career, winning 11 of them, and reaching the final in two other occasions. As said, she was basically invincible, and without an utterly motivated Azarenka, there really isn't anyone who can stand a chance against her. 

Although I feel she isn't as dominant as she once was, her will power is from outta this world. As showed during the WTA Championships in Istanbul, her opponents cannot really break through the mental barrier and beat her. The last two encounters were extremely difficult for a fatigued Serena. First, she was required to dig deep to survive the Jankovic assault, to then have to rely on the mental fragility of Chinese Na Li to defend her title. Li completely melted down while leading 6-3,3-0, losing nine consecutive games to gift away the title. It probably wasn't the most straightforward triumph, but the thing that matters most for the American is that she is winning matches, even when she is not playing her best. There are a few who can take advantage of this erratic display though, and I am referring mostly about the younger generation. We saw Sloane Stephens defeat Serena in Melbourne, and Sabine Lisicki stun her at Wimbledon, but unfortunately for the rest, the more experienced ones, beating Serena is a rare feat to achieve.

With an out-of-sorts Vika struggling to find motivation, I was expecting the American to cruised through the Istanbul draw. It wasn't quite a walk in the park though. Her journey could have ended in the semis, but it didn't, mostly because of her astonishing mental strength. Despite the hiccups, Williams successfully defended the title, strengthening her authority at the top of rankings.

With 11 crowns and an amazing 78-4 match record, this was definitely Serena's year. I think that if Vika plays her best tennis more constantly, we might have a completely different story next season. For now though, Williams is the undisputed WTA Queen.

Following her fabulous 2013 season, Serena was crowned this year's No.1 player. She received the distinction during the an Award Ceremony held in Istanbul.

Finding resources only she knew existed, Serena reeled off nine straight games to dismiss Na Li's stiff challenge to secure her second consecutive WTA Championships title. The American won 2-6,6-3,6-0 to successfully defend her Istanbul crown.

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Vika's Nightmare Ending to 2013

Although she started the year superbly, winning her second Aussie Open title and defeating Serena Williams to retain her Doha crown, Vika Azarenka run out of steam as the season progressed. She lost momentum following the nasty knee injury she sustained at Wimbledon, and although she came back strong during the North American period to win in Cincinnati, again after a mouth-watering victory over Serena, she was never quite the same. The heart-breaking loss to the American in the US Open championship match proved the final nail in the coffin. Not 100% fit and struggling to find motivation, Vika won just one of her last five matches, a rare "achievement" for the world No.2.

Azarenka came into the WTA Championships in Istanbul on the back of two early exits in Asia. She lost first round both in Tokyo, to Venus Williams, as well as in Beijing, to Andrea Petkovic. Nevertheless, she started her campaign strongly, beating Sara Errani in straight sets to take the lead in the White Group. This group was relatively easy, so I was expecting her to cruise through it without major difficulties. I was actually anticipating another showdown with Serena in Sunday's final, but the poor mental state she's in surfaced once more when she was dismissed 4-6,3-6 by late qualifier, Jelena Jankovic. 

The shocking result complicated her case, and the Belorussian needed a straight sets triumph over Li Na to guarantee her place in the semis. It was over before it began though, as she sustained a lower back injury while serving at 2-3, which made it impossible for her to compete at a decent level. Li dropped just one more game from there on, as she closed out a commanding 6-2,6-1 victory. Visibly in pain and unable to move, the Belorussian was asked why she hadn't retired. "I just wanted to try to do my best for the fans who came to watch and out of respect for my opponent," she answered. "It was just about trying to do the best I could out there."
These last few months have been tough, but it's important for Vika to shake off the disappointment, find her motivation, and come back stronger in 2014. I stand by my belief that she is the only one capable of stopping Serena from clean sweeping the majors next year. Go Vika! #letsdothis #newstart #newchapter

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Tennis Moods Style: The 2013 Istanbul Fashion Week

At the end of a gruelling 2013, 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 third year running (see 2011 and 2012), the Turkish capital was host to a magnificent week of tennis, which saw Serena Williams, Vika Azarenka, Na Li, Aga Radwanska, Petra Kvitova, Angelique Kerber, Sara Errani, and Jelena Jankovic battle it out for ultimate glory. 

However, this week was not only about tennis. In addition to going head-to-head on the court, the WTA divas also disputed the 'Best Dressed' award, when their stepped on the red carpet at the Draw Ceremony on Sunday, Oct 20. To be honest, I was a little bit disappointed with the fashion on display. None of the players really shone. Serena and JJ had a correct look, Aga opted for the stand-out dress,  but she almost killed it with the shoes, Vika looked like Sister Act gone wild, while Angie's proportions were completely off in the black jumpsuit.

Victoria Azarenka (Belarus)

I don't understand what was she thinking, but Vika looked like a pregnant madame who is going to a soiree instead of the Draw Ceremony in that huuuge black dress. First, it is a few sizes too big for her. Secondly, the upper part adds so much volume to her bust and waist making her look like she's pregnant. Thirdly, the hair is a complete mess. She should've wore in a bun or something. Fourthly, the pearls are too big. She should've chosen something more delicate. The edgy Belorussian went too BIG this time and she failed.

On the other hand though, her on-court garment was the exact opposite. The bold print is sharp. Plus, I love the nice light grey strip on the shoulder. Great turnaround from Vika!

Serena Williams (USA)

Serena was safe in Istanbul. The red, strapless dress will always complement both her curvy body, as well as her skin tone. Although it proved a wise choice, it lacked a bit of excitement. Her on-court apparel too. She's always had some memorable outfits, especially for these big events, so this feels a bit of a letdown. I hope she will not continue on this more commercial pattern. I don't want to see another Maria Sharapova.

Agnieszka Radwanska (Poland)

Aga had the most interesting dress on the red carpet, but she almost killed it with the shoes. The two don't match. I like the color of the peep-toes, but resent the detailing. I would have chosen something more hardcore, or a simple pair of stilettos. I credit her for taking a risk though. The Pole is proving a small fashionista wannabe after all.

Na Li (China)

Na Li is the biggest ambassador for Asian tennis, so I think it's applaudable that she stressed her roots by wearing an ivory cheongsam at the Draw Ceremony. The shoes are a no no and the watch does not match the outfit, but the Chinese was not trying to create a fashion moment, so I'll forgive her :). 

The on-court look was OK-ish. While I like the color combination, I dislike the stripes, the vertical fuchsia stripe on the polo and the horizontal white stripe on the skirt.

Sara Errani (Italy)

Sara Errani finally stepped up a notch and wore something decent on the red carpet. The Italian is usually either too casual or ultra sophisticated, but she got the balance right this time, wearing an interesting cocktail dress and a nice hairdo. I would have liked to see higher heels, but overall a good look from Sara.

Petra Kvitova (Czech Republic)

Kvitova is another hopeless fashion case, but the Czech made some nice progress with her hairdo. Her dress, although flat, is not a faux-pas, but it requires another pair of shoes. You could wear those sandals with jeans and a top, but not on the red carpet. I am not at all enthusiastic with this fall collection from Nike, but it's a generic issue, so no minuses for Petra when picking the on-court apparel.

Jelena Jankovic (Serbia)

Although I am not a fan off the biggest fashionista wannabe, Jelena Jankovic, the Serbian got her game right this time, option for a short, beaded lbd to which she matched a pair of black stilettos. She used a red lipstick for a touch of color, so overall a correct look, perfectly suited for the occasion. 

Angelique Kerber (Germany)

They may be extremely talented, but the Germans are a complete fiasco when it comes to fashion. Although black is a color that slims you, Angelique Kerber managed to look fatter in an all black ensemble. That's because of the low waist that stresses the hips area, adding extra volume exactly where there's plenty. Plus, the proportions are totally off and the accessorizing is poorly done. Throw the necklace and the belt! A big miss for Angie. 

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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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