Wozniacki back on top

Caroline Wozniacki swept back to the top of the WTA rankings with Friday’s 6-2, 6-4 victory against Shahar Peer at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

The Danish number one seed here got off to great starts in both sets against the ninth-ranked Israeli, surging 3-0 and 4-0 ahead for the loss of only three points in total amid the unfamiliar surrounds of Court Two.

Those respective buffers gave her sufficient insurance to lose three service games thereafter, but it didn’t matter in the final reckoning as Wozniacki cruised relatively easily into the semi-finals, overtaking Belgium’s Kim Clijsters at the summit in the process.

“It’s nice to be back at number one and it’s a good feeling to have,” the 20-year-old said. “I gave Kim one week and, hopefully, I’ll have it now for a few more weeks. It’s just nice to be able to say you’re number one in the world.”

Wozniacki showcased her burgeoning potential in this win over Peer, exhibiting great athleticism and stamina to run down – and return with interest – almost everything her opponent hit over the net.

“I had a good start and I was happy about the way I began both sets,” she explained. “I was just very focused going into the match and knew what I had to do and that the court was going to be a bit faster and more open.

“I know that, if I’m playing to a high level, I’m tough to beat. I’m playing good tennis and I’m really pleased about the way I’m playing at the moment. I’m improving all of the time and I’m happy to be through.”

Wozniacki looked as if she’d done a fair amount of homework and research of Peer’s game prior to stepping out onto the court, given the minimal amount of discomfort she faced in predominantly one-sided rallies.

It wasn’t all down to the newly-crowned queen’s own studious approach though, with the Australian Open semi-finalist adding: “I have the best computer in the world and that’s my dad! (former professional footballer Piotr).

“He always watches the matches of my opponents and he’ll come in with a few tips on Saturday. Once in a while, I go watch a few games just to see how they play, but I usually let my dad watch.

“I always analyze my opponents and know how they play. Of course, I want my own game plan, but it’s nice to know how the opponent is playing; her better – and weaker – sides and just small key points. It definitely helped me out today.”

Wozniacki does though readily concede she likes to look at – and learn from – the men’s matches, having seen Andy Murray’s Australian Open semi-final clash with David Ferrer from the Scot’s supporters’ box last month.

“I enjoy watching the men a lot,” she commented. “They play a little bit differently than the women. It’s just nice to pick up a few tips here and there.

“Sometimes, it’s nice to be able to play a little bit like the men or think a little bit similar to them. That way, you can learn a bit. It’s just sometimes they choose different shots; they make a different shot selection than the women. It’s just good to see.

“They know, if they’re in good shape and they run well, they don’t need to go for the winner when they’re out in the corner. They can play it back and wait for the right shot.”

alex@khaleejtimes.com

• Tennis