After two long overdue tournament wins and a return to the top ten it was a stellar year for Daniela Hantuchova in 2007.
The year so far has been encouraging.
The revelatory and at times world beating form she showed at the Australian Open was ultimately spoilt by a poorly played semi-final. It was essentially a wasted chance. The following weeks saw some surprise and disappointing results as Hantuchova’s form receded to indifferent at best.
Then, in Antwerp she retired due to a recurring ‘respiratory illness’ which resembles a form of asthma. With Indian Wells looming, and with a title to defend for the Slovak, has this period proved a blessing or a hindrance?
Certainly a break from the tour would seem welcome for a player who among the most active participants. It is true also that the post Australia form was far from encouraging – illness or not.
Seeded fifth at Indian Wells and scheduled to meet her first real test in Sharapova in the quarter finals it will be interesting to monitor her level and condition.
Image from AFP
All Things Tennis 