Dementieva Attacks in Sydney (GREG WOOD/AFP/Getty Images)
Elena Dementieva repeat as champion of the Medibank International in Sydney proved again she will be one to watch in Melbourne next week as she earned a convincing 6-3, 6-2 win over Serena Williams in last night’s final.
Williams, who produced an unstellar forty unforced errors, could never get her game in gear. In the first set, the two exchanged several breaks until Dementieva got a second break and went on to serve out the first set. The second set was more of the same as Williams, somewhat hampered by a leg issue, was no match for the Russian.
In men’s action Richard Gasquet of France won over fellow countryman Julien Benneteau 6-3, 7-6 (7) while Marcos Baghdatis survived an almost three-hour epic over Mardy Fish 6-4, 6-7(5) , 7-6(5) to meet Gasquet in the final.
Gasquet, now at No. 53, after enduring a two month ban for alleged cocaine use, was happy with the win and the chance to compete again.
“It’s tough to come back, it’s hard in the head, so it was really tiring, more tiring than playing 100 matches for sure,” he said of his ordeal. “But I don’t care. I know it’s hard, but I want to play just for fun. That’s why I’m here and I’m enjoying myself.”
Baghdatis who endured a long slide in the rankings due to injuries is now back in the top 100 again and always seems to play well in front of the Australian crowds. If Baghdatis can keep his play, and happy-go-lucky attitude going in Melbourne, fans there will be in for a real treat.
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