Tennis Chatter

Just like watching a tennis ball at play, let us swing our attention from the Middle East to the West today, shall we?

In Dubai, Justine Henin must have that Alladin genie upon her each time she sets foot in the Arabian territory. On Saturday, she won her fourth Dubai title (winner in 2003,2004 & 2006) beating Frenchwoman Amelie Mauresmo 6-4 7-5 on Saturday in almost two hours of play.

This is Justine’s second tournament since her recent separation from her husband. Coming back as a strong winner is the best gift a champion can give to herself.

Inspired by the storybook comeback of her younger sister Serena, Venus Williams is vying for the title in the Tier III event Cellular South Cup in Memphis in only her first tournament since October. She has been perennially suffering from a left wrist injury and is working her way to shaping up for bigger tournaments. She will face the talented Shahar Peer of Israel.

Also on Saturday, we saw that American Andy Roddick is quite becoming a Connors. He swept The Scot Andy Murray 6-3, 7-6 (4) off the Regions Morgan Keegan Championships title contenders shortlist in Memphis during their semifinal match returning the loss he suffered in the hands of the younger player last week in San Jose. That means that Roddick has slightly improved his head-to-head statistics against Murray at 2-3. Yes, folks, this one he is literally closing the gap. However, I see this as a continuing rivalry so I would not exactly bet my cards on it yet. Both players have a lot to give yet. As in anything in life, when not a single speck is left in you, nothing moves you one iota. These two are still so full of life we can be assured of a more meaningful tennis in as many years.