Maria Sharapova, the 12th seed in Beijing, was defeated 7-6, 6-2 today by countrywoman Elena Vesnina. All other seeded players survived today except for Victoria Azarenka, who retired with--here we go again--a left thigh strain.
In a match-up of two players who competed against each other in a thrilling Wimbledon quarterfinal, Petra Kvitova was again victorious over Kaia Kanepi. Kvitova won 7-5, 6-7, 6-2 in a match that lasted over 2 hours and 28 minutes.
Doubles top seeds Gisela Dulko and Flavia Pennetta won their second round match, 6-3, 6-3, against Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci.
One has to wonder if Azarenka needs to get together with a new trainer to get herself into better condition, both strength-wise and cardio. She just has too many strains, pulls and issues with playing in heat for what is supposed to be a "top" player in top condition. Look at how much Wozniacki has improved herself physically in a relatively short period of time with a better training regimen over the past year (and especially since Wimbledon). Azarenka would be wise to follow suit.
ReplyDeleteI've wondered the same thing. And since it is very hot at a number of tournaments, her vulnerability is costing her a lot.
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