I have many reasons to be pleased with my performance today. I succeeded in applying the experience from the last match against Amelie and to dominate the game with strong shots. Forehand winners were the key to my game today but I am also happy with the way I returned Amelie’s trade mark slice shots. Furthermore, today I served much better although I know I have to improve my first serve percentage. However, the most important thing is that I managed to keep my focus and finish the match in two sets. Under these weather conditions this is of vital importance.
After arrival to Sydney and two short practice sessions on Saturday, it was decided that I have to play the first match on the first tournament day. Peng is an excellent player and I expected a hard match. The switch to outdoor play affected my first serve the most hence a very low percentage. However, I managed to compensate with a good second serve and some solid play from the baseline.
With a slightly improved timing and a few more practice sessions I expect to raise my game to a higher level.
Regards
Ana
Hopman Cup is over for us. Thanks for all your support. Although we are sorry that we didn't make the final, I think that both of us can pleased with the way we started our season. This was a good test for us, I played a couple of good matches which after the long training period.
Behind me is a beautiful week in Perth with unforgettable memories. This was one of the nicest tournaments and nicest city I ever visited. I am fascinated by the beautiful sandy beaches and Indian Ocean's turquoise colour.
First of all, happy new year to all my fans and supporters. I am sure that in 2006 we will share many happy moments.
Here in Perth the Hopman cup tournament and surrounding events is well underway. Apart from regular practice there are many entertaining activities. As an example, we played tennis and golf with so that each team had a pro tennis player, a pro golf player and a representative from the organizing committee. The Golf course is very close to the hotel and it felt good spending a few hours outdoors.
After nearly three weeks in Melbourne we arrived in Perth. Burswood Resort is a fantastic place; the stadium for the Hyundai Hopman Cup matches, hotels and restaurants are all very close to each other. The hosts are really nice and made us feel welcome.
I am in Melbourne for a few days now. After the initial and customary acclimatisation process, which included waking up at 5am, I have launched straight back into full-blown training. The conditions are ideal; the temperature is 25 degrees, and thanks to the very kind hosts here at Melbourne Park, everything else is also perfect. Furthermore, I’ll have a chance to practice with Australian players and I think that I could not have picked a better place to prepare for the forthcoming season.
My second week in Switzerland is nearly over. I am tired but happy. The first part of the preparations for the new season is going as planned. Teamwork with Zoltan and Pierre on the court is always interesting but sometimes hard as well. However, this is the time of year when I can do the most regarding my physical fitness.
My non-tennis related activities are cut down to minimum. Most of the free time I spend reading. At the moment I am absorbed by “The Memoirs of the Last Empress of China”. I like historical novels and discovering new things about different parts of the world.
A week in Lausanne went fast. Trainings, tennis, massage… I fell very well, much better then I expected. Only light soar muscles. Pierre says that I got used to his specific exercises and his way of working. I remember that only a few months ago I felt very tired after these exercises. Now, I even have energy left to walk around the town.
Our hotel is in Lausanne city centre. We are surrounded by boutiques and restaurants and the streets with Christmas decorations look fantastic. Last night I went to see a movie, a thriller Flight Plan. Movies are my favourite past times.
Hello Everybody
I am going back to work after spending three exciting weeks at home. First, it was my birthday. I spent it with my family and my friends and I enjoyed it very much. I went out a lot as well, Belgrade is famous for having lots of places to go out and have good time.
There was lots of excitement about the Charity match for rebuilding the Avala TV tower near Belgrade. I enjoyed the match against Novak. Being on the tour for the last few years I kind of forgot how great is playing in the city of my birth.
I fell like this season ended too soon for me. During the last two tournaments I could feel that I am getting better and better, I had a good rhythm and started hitting something like my best form from the very beginning of the season.
Yet another defeat against Patty. It is hard to believe that on all three indoor tournaments I played this year I lost to Patty. This time I played better and got closer. I think I know what is the best tactics to play Patty and I am sure next time I’ll do much better.
