DUBAI: Double Incentive - 網球

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DUBAI: Double Incentive
25/02/2006:

There was double the incentive for Justine on Friday to win her third Dubai
trophy as unusual rains delayed 10:30am start times of back logged matches
from the previous day. Justine defeated Francesca Schiavone in the late
afternoon quarterfinals 6-4 7-5 (7-5), returned on court in the early evening
after yet again, a few rain delays to win her semi-final match against
Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-2 7-5. All the quarterfinals, and semi-finals were
played in one day. The Belgian will next play Maria Sharapova in the big
finale on Saturday night.

"My win this morning gave me a lot of confidence, I was relaxed from the
start. The final is going to be a tough match, as they (Davenport and
Sharapova) are both great players. I will have to play my best tennis" -
Justine

Justine was given the official two hour rest period between matches before
taking on Svetlana Kuznetsova in their 10th meeting. Their head to head maybe
have been 8-1, but the Russian has fond memories of the UAE. Kuznetsova's
only win over Justine was in the Doha semi-finals back in 2004, a week after
they played the Dubai final. Feeling relaxed Justine dominated the match from
the start. She showcased her all court game of slices, drop volleys, passing
shots, 1-handed backhands, and solid footwork defense against an in form
Kuznetsova confident with her win over Amelie Mauresmo earlier in the day.
Svetlana was overwhelmed, and Justine won the first set 6-2 in 38 minutes.

Kuznetsova started the second strong showing her all court game that revolved
around her forehand. The shot making from both players were a treat to the
Dubai crowd. Justine faltered on her breakpoint chances, and lost her serve a
few times, but urged by the cheering supportive audience, she pleased them
with power 1-handed backhands. At 5-5 Justine took over the match. At 6-5
with three match points, Justine won by converting on her second match point.
The second set went to Justine 7-5 in 52 minutes.


Justine will play Maria Sharapova in the final on Saturday night at 19:00 hrs
(UAE). The Belgian leads their head to head 3-1. Their last meeting was the
semi-final at the Australian Open last month. This will be the first final
they will play against each other. The Dubai Duty Free Women's Open final
will be televised internationally on all Sony Ericsson WTA broadcasters.
Please check your local tv listings for exact times, and dates. Our chatroom
will also be open for Justine supporters from around the world. Be sure to
also check out the Dubai Duty Free Women's Open official site for scores.
Cheer for the world's most incredible 1-handed backhand as she competes for
her triple Dubai trophy win.


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