4,000 artworks from 65 countries to wow visitors at World Art Dubai 2024
arts11 hours ago
“It was a special night tonight. That’s why I probably came back on the tour, to live these kind of matches,” an exhausted Henin told reporters after clinching a 7-5 7-6 victory over the world number five at a packed Rod Laver Arena.
“I think I’m already at an amazing level for not having played 18 months and the draw was pretty tough.
“But it’s the kind of thing I need for my confidence. Now we’ll see.”
In beating Dementieva, and proving none of her sublime shot-making had deserted her in the time away from the game, Henin has hinted she could win the trophy in just her second tournament back.
The Belgian, whose seven grand slam titles were built on her ice-cool demeanour during big points, was concerned her skills may have deserted her.
Having failed to despatch U.S. Open champion and fellow comeback queen Kim Clijsters when given two match points in the final of the Brisbane International this month, Henin felt the doubts creep in again when she missed another when serving for the match at 5-4 against Dementieva.
“I thought about Brisbane and the opportunities I got over there,” said Henin. “(I) got the opportunity to finish the match and couldn’t because my nerves weren’t probably solid enough.
“Today I thought it was going to happen again. I really thought in the tiebreak I wouldn’t be strong enough.
“When I got the opportunities, and the way I finished on serve and volley, I mean it was the best I could dream of.”
A third set would have been tough for the 27-year-old who begun to cramp up badly during the tiebreak of the near-three hour match.
Henin next meets another Russian, 27th seed Alisa Kleybanova.
“I don’t have any answer how I’m going to recover in the next 36 hours or so,” she said.
4,000 artworks from 65 countries to wow visitors at World Art Dubai 2024
arts11 hours ago
The project follows the rebuilding of a metropolis after it has fallen into decline
entertainment11 hours ago
The winners of the tie will face either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, who drew 2-2 in Tuesday's first leg in Munich
football11 hours ago
Saldana posted a selfie of herself with the Oscar-winning actress on Instagram
entertainment11 hours ago
Deepika shared a beautiful glimpse of a surprise she received from the film team
entertainment11 hours ago
Tame the summer with these beach and pool passes that can be exchanged for food and drinks
entertainment11 hours ago
Statement indicates next move will be a cut
markets13 hours ago
89% poised to invest in CX solutions in the Middle East
business13 hours ago