Katie O'Brien's last opportunity to clinch US Open Direct Entry and complete what Stephen on GBTG has termed the 'Katie Slam' - entrance to all 4 Grand Slams in 2009 by the 4 different methods (WC, LL, Q and Direct Entry).
Katie has a rematch with Monica Niculescu, who beat her comfortably in the Australian Open, but has been in poor form recently. Should she gain her first WTA level win on clay, another rematch awaits - with Iveta Benesova, who beat her at Wimbledon.
R1
Monica Niculescu (ROU) v Katie O'Brien (GBR) (WC) Karolina Pliskova (CZE) v (3) Iveta Benesova (CZE)
Katie's match has just started - in the 2nd game, Niculescu got four 1st serves in and held to love, whereas so far Katie has a 1st serve % of just 35% and has had to save 4 bps in her first two service games.
Still, it's 2-1*
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GB on a shirt, Davis Cup still gleaming, 79 years of hurt, never stopped us dreaming ... 29/11/2015 that dream came true!
Niculescu always seems to be at the top of the rankings for 1st serve % at the slams - such a huge bonus to be able to do it so consistently; it's a wonder more players aren't able to do it. Though I suppose it may be less of a weapon as a result.
Have to feel sorry for the Bondarenkos playing each other...