Ivanovic prevails in a match to remember

In all fairness to Jelena Jankovic, it can't be that easy, playing with a cold in the latter stages of a tournament. But she hung in for three thrilling sets in her semifinal at the East West Bank Classic. On the other side of the net, however, Ana Invanovic put up one of the best fights of the season, coming back from near-defeat over and over and over. Ivanovic's forehand and Jankovic's backhand were on display, in all their brilliance, providing fans one of the best matches of the year. Jankovic's defense was excellent, as usual, and her down-the-line shots would be admired by Chris Evert herself. But it was Ivanovic who squeezed out the victory, with her impressive forehand, excellent serving, light-touch volleys, and fighting spirit. Final score: 4-6, 6-3, 7-5

Ivanovic will face the winner of the Maria Sharapova-Nadia Petrova semifinal. Ivanovic won the U.S. Open Series last year. Next week, she will try to defend her Rogers Cup title, which is suddenly looking much easier because of all the withdrawals from Toronto.