Davenport In Doubt
Illawarra Mercury
Saturday January 17, 2004
LINDSAY Davenport's Australian Open is in doubt after the former world tennis No1 pulled out of her adidas International semifinal at Homebush Bay yesterday.
The American was due to play Belgian Justine Henin-Hardenne last night, but had to withdraw because of a pectoral strain sustained in her singles quarterfinal match on Thursday.
``I said yesterday my arm was a bit sore - unfortunately I injured it a little bit more in my singles yesterday and after waking up this morning it's just pretty painful and extremely tight," Davenport said yesterday.
``It's just really sad that I can't play.
``At this point of where I am in my career and (with) all the injuries I've had and where I want to go with my health, I just feel that it's best right now that I get my arm better."
Davenport was still quite confident that she'd be able to take her place at the Australian Open, which begins on Monday.
``The doctors and the trainers feel that three to four days rest will make a huge difference," said Davenport, who had still decided to play a set in the doubles on Thursday despite the injury.
``There's probably a chance that it will heal completely. They think it's probably just the muscles."
If Davenport is forced to withdraw from the Australian Open it would be another body blow for tournament organisers, with Serena Williams and Jennifer Capriati already out and Kim Clijsters in doubt with an ankle problem.
Henin-Hardenne will now play the winner of the Amelie Mauresmo-Francesca Schiavone match in the final.
© 2004 Illawarra Mercury
