Jakarta ITF Grade 2 returns without the same sponsor

ITF Grade 2 tourney will start tomorrow at Kemayoran Tennis Center, Jakarta and it will take place at a mediocre tennis facility owned by "tennis diva" Martina Widjaja who is still the President of Indonesia Tennis Association. Ever since its inauguration in 2003, this tourney had been sponsored by Salonpas and known as "Salonpas Indonesia International Junior Championships" but Salonpas' commitment eventually ended last year. So, it is now called as "Indonesia International Junior Championhips" and the departure of some sponsors including Salonpas came as no surprise for "smart fans" despite Widjaja's complaints. It is timely overdue for Widjaja as the captain of Indonesian tennis bureaucracy to check into herself and how she manages most of her cronies. It is easy guess for even child age's fans, when eventually Widjaja takes out of her fluid bank accounts to save this tourney.

Sunu Wahyu Trijati from Central Java was a history maker in this tourney as he took singles' title in 2003 and 2004. Jessy Rompies finally claimed her third ITF junior title here barely before she turned 18 years old last year. Rompies set a benchmark and created better outcome than Maya Rosa, runner-up in 2003 and Mia Sacca, also runner-up in 2007.

Some notable overseas players who grabbed singles' title such as Chan Yung-Jan of Chinese Taipei, winner of 2003 and 2005. The current world number one in ITF junior tour, Noppawan "Nok" Lertcheewakarn from Thailand took the title in 2006.

In boys' singles the first seed is likely younger brother of Hsieh Su-Wei from Chinese Taipei, currently ranked 18 in the world, Hsieh Cheng-Peng. Followed by his compatriot, Huang Liang-Chi as second seed, then German Dominik Schulz will be third seed. Fourth seed is likely Austrian Maximilian Neuchrist, followed by winner of 2008 ITF Grade 4 in Surabaya and Solo, Samuel Barry of Ireland. Sixth seed will be Dino Dell'Orto of Hong Kong, then Sudanwa Sitaram will be seventh seed and last but not least local player, David Agung Susanto as eighth seed.

In girls' singles 18 years old and the current world ranked number 24 Beatrice Gumulya is undoubtedly to be the top seed. A late bloomer, Gumulya will try to earn her only second title in ITF Junior circuit since she was runner-up in this tourney last year. Two Thai players, Kanyapat Narattana and Natchanok Saenyaukhot will be second and third seeds respectively. Indian Kyra Shroff is likely to be placed as fourth seed, followed by Thai descent from New Zealand, Katherine Westbury will be fifth seed, while up and coming Grace Sari Ysidora is most certain to be sixth seed. The two remaining seventh and eighth seeds will be Juan Ting-Fei of Chinese Taipei and Indian Ashvarya Shrivastava.

Based on the information from Tournament Director, Johannes Susanto, wild cards in the main draw are given to Ega Uneputty, Iben Zulkarnain, Indra Wijaya and Louis Theodor for boys' singles. While talented Aldila Sutjiadi, Dina Karina, Kely Restiana Putri and Dwi Rahayu Pitri are girls' singles wild card receivers.

Limantoro ended her journey in El Salvador

Surabaya born Christina Limantoro had no choice but to be satisfied with her result at "La Libertad Junior Open 2009" an ITF Grade 4 tourney in La Libertad, El Salvador. Limantoro bowed out to top seed Charlotte Calhoun of USA 3-6, 1-6 in the quarter-final yesterday (February 27, 2009). Nevertheless, she posted her second quarter-final of her junior career after she did it at Thailand Open, another ITF Grade 4 tourney in early July 2008.

Meanwhile, such perfect semi-finals will be witnessed by the fans here in La Libertad. Top seed Calhoun will face third seed Karen Hernandez of Mexico, then second seed Juliana Gajic of Canada will clash with fourth seed Annie Mulholland from USA. Canadian Gajic set quite impressive outcome as she reached semi-finals back to back after "Jalisco Junior Cup 2009" in Mexico last week.

Limantoro reached quarter-final in El Salvador ITF Grade 4

Surabaya born Christina Limantoro cruised into the quarter-final at "La Libertad Junior Open 2009" an ITF Grade 4 tourney in La Libertad, El Salvador which started on February 23. As unseeded player, Limantoro eased past local wild card Jennifer Paola Artiga Henriquez 6-2, 6-1 in the opening round (draw 32).

In the second round, Limantoro, a student at Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Bradenton, Florida earned her spot in the last eight round after she shocked fourth seed Canadian Sara Lazarevic. Lazarevic was born in Sarajevo, Bosnia 17 years ago and is currently a resident of Calgary, Alberta. Limantoro is now enjoying her highest rank ever at ITF 813 and she defeated world ranked number 495 Lazarevic 6-3, 6-2.

In the quarter-final, Limantoro will challenge top seed Charlotte Calhoun of USA who is currently at ITF 344. Calhoun will turn 18 years old in July and will try to grab her maiden title of her junior career. Her best performance so far was as qualifier who was successful to go all the way to quarter-final at ITF Grade 3 tourney, Costa Rica Bowl almost a year ago.

In doubles, Limantoro maintained her doubles' partnership with German Frizzi Bschorer same as the last two tourneys in Mexico. In the first round (draw 16), Bschorer/Christina won easily over duo of Canada and El Salvador, Marika Akkerman/Karla Lissette Flores Rivas 6-2, 6-0. In the quarter-final Bschorer/Christina fought hard till the end but they lost to second seed pair, Karen Hernandez/Annette Rios (Mexico/El Salvador) 3-6, 6-2, 7-10.

Notable Indonesians at the recent Lion tourney

A number of Indonesians competed at the inaugural Racket Sports Asia Tennis Championships and it was quite a mixture of very young and old players for sure. Some notable players were sixth seed Andrian Raturandang, eighth seed Sulistyo Wibowo, older brother of Liza Andriyani, then tenth seed Marco Sitepu, 32nd seed Ivan Regan Krijanto and also Imanuel Prabowo. Raturandang, father of a little boy, finished as quarter-finalist as he gave such fight to the eventual runner-up and third seed, Cho Soong-Jae of South Korea, 3-6, 6-4, 4-6. Meanwhile 39 years old Wibowo also made all the way into quarter-final when he eventually lost to top seed and the eventual winner Kim Dylan 2-6, 1-6. Sitepu, who is running a tennis school in Kuala Lumpur and is 40 years old, gave walk over to Japanese Shoki Kasahara in the second round. Krijanto ended-up in third round (round 16) as he bowed out to 4th seed Malaysian Yew Ming Si 2-6, 2-6. Last but not least, unseeded Prabowo, recent graduate of Chicago State University, had to be content with his second round result as he defeated by 22nd seed Lee Doo Hyen of South Korea, 3-6, 7-5, 3-6.

In men's doubles beside Raturandang who captured the title with Thai Peerakiat "Nack" Siriluethaiwattana, third seed Wibowo partnered with Sugiharta and they ended in the semi-final when they bowed out top seed pair Kim/Cho of South Korea 1-6, 3-6.

Montinee "Ploy" Tangphong of Thailand placed as top seed but she lost to her compatriot Varanya "Kaew" Vijuksanaboon 1-6, 1-6 in the semi-final. En route to the final, third seed Liza Andriyani breezed past 13 years younger, Trivena Monika Putri of Medan, North Sumatra, 1-6, 2-6 in quarter-final. In the semi-final, Andriyani ousted second seed Wynne Prakusya 6-4, 7-5.

Top seed pair Tangphong/Vijuksanaboon lost walk over to Eunice Chew/Hannah Chew of Singapore in the second round. Second seed duo Wynne Prakusya/Ivana Prakusya bowed out to the eventual champion, unseeded pair of North Sumatra Trivena Monika Putri/Dede Tari Kusrini 2-6, 2-6 in the quarter-final.

Prize money allocation (all in Singapore $, prize money only for quarter-finalists up in singles, while in doubles only for semi-finalists up)

Men’s Singles:
Winner S$ 3,500.00
Runner-Up S$ 1,700.00
Semi-Finalists S$ 850.00
Quarter-Finalists S$ 400.00

Men’s Doubles:
Winners (per team) S$ 2,000.00
Runner-Up (per team) S$ 1,000.00
Semi-Finalists (per team) S$ 500.00

Women’s Singles:
Winner S$ 3,500.00
Runner-Up S$ 1,700.00
Semi-Finalists S$ 850.00
Quarter-Finalists S$ 400.00

Women’s Doubles:
Winners (per team) S$ 2,000.00
Runner-Up (per team) S$ 1,000.00
Semi-Finalists (per team) S$ 500.00

Full results at http://www.rsatc.org/index.html

Better late than never - from Singapore, Indonesians showed their advantage

Former Fed Cup team member and once world ranked 471, Liza Andriyani proved her ability as she won the title at the inaugural Racket Sports Asia Tennis Championships for women's singles category which ended on February 8, 2009. Third seed Indonesian Andriyani claimed the crown after defeating fourth seed Thai, Varanya "Kaew" Vijuksanaboon 6-4, 6-2. It was indeed a perfect birthday present for herself, as Andriyani turned 30 years old four days later.

But then, Andriyani and her 36 years old Malaysian doubles' partner, Lela Zainal fell 7-5, 4-6, 3-6 to younger Indonesian pair, 17 years old Trivena Monika Putri and 21 years old Dede Tari Kusrini of North Sumatra in the women's doubles final.

The tournament, which started on January 30, 2009 boasted a total prize purse of SGD $ 25,000. It attracted 258 entries in four categories of men's singles and doubles, women's singles and doubles.

In the men's singles category, top seed and the world No. 683 Kim Dylan Seong-Kwan of South Korea defeated compatriot and 2008 Roland Garros Junior Championships quarter-finalist Cho Soong Jae 6-4, 6-2 at the Kallang Tennis Centre to pocket SGD $ 3,500 winner's prize money. 23 years old Kim's biggest career win came in last May's South Korean Futures tournament in Jaeju. Kim's first visit to Singapore finished on a mixed note. Kim and Myong Ji University teammate Cho lost to the Thai-Indonesian pairing of up and coming Peerakiat "Nack" Siriluethaiwattana and veteran Andrian Raturandang 6-0, 5-7, 6-7 (3-7) in the men's doubles final.

Back to back "deja vu" for Limantoro and Ravita

Same results in 2 weeks posted by both Christina Limantoro and Nadia Ravita here in the land of guacamole as they competed in "Jalisco Junior Cup 2009", an ITF Grade 4 tourney on clay court of Club Atlas Chapalita, Zapopan, Mexico. In the second round or round 16 (total draw of 32 this time), Limantoro tried hard especially in the second set but eventually she bowed out to Canadian 7th seed Juliana Gajic, 2-6, 6-7(1). As Ravita performed well in the opening round, then she could not maintain her good form as she clashed with tougher opponent, Monica Turewicz of USA. This lefty American was runner-up at the previous tourney in Mexico City. Ravita lost to Turewicz 1-6, 4-6 in round 16. With this outcome, both Limantoro and Ravita earned only the minimum rank point of 5 each.

In doubles, exactly the same results this time for both girls mentioned above. Limantoro continued her doubles' partnership with German Frizzi Bschorer and they survived their opening round by defeating local pair, Nadine Ruegg/Marisa Ruiz 7-5, 4-6, 12-10. In the quarter-final, duo Bschorer/Limantoro easily lost to top seed pair Anna Orlik/Monica Turewicz (Belarus/USA) 1-6, 1-6. While Ravita also maintained to partner with Simone Pratt of the Bahamas, and they crashed out immediately in the first round (draw 16). Pratt/Ravita bowed out to Kristina Kinarkina/Daryna Sachuk (Russia/Ukraine) 1-6, 3-6.

Ravita surprised 5th seed, as Limantoro also won

Christina Limantoro and Nadia Ravita continued on their journey in the land of "Salma Hayek" as they are currently competing in "Jalisco Junior Cup 2009", an ITF Grade 4 tourney on clay court of Club Atlas Chapalita, Zapopan, Mexico. Both were successful in securing their berth into the second round (round 32) after they won their opening round. Limantoro had a slight problem before she disposed her opponent, Fernanda Sandoval of Mexico (ITF 1127) 6-4, 6-3 in the first round. Up next in the second round, this Surabaya resident will clash with Canadian 7th seed Juliana Gajic. Gajic opened her first round campaign by defeating local wild card Karina Hinojosa 6-3, 6-4.

Ravita was shocker of the opening round as she breezed past 5th seed Thais Romero of Mexico 6-2, 6-1. Romero became the only seeded player with such very early exit. Romero, a Guadalajara born, is currently at ITF 460 and she has been trained also at Nick Bollettieri Tennis Acacemy while Ravita has been trained at ITA in Delray Beach, Florida in the last 7 months. Jakarta resident Ravita will take up another challenge as she will face lefty American Monica Turewicz (ITF 425) in the second round. If Ravita wins, she will likely to have tougher battle against top seed and currently world ranked number 64, Anna Orlik from Belarus. Personally as an avid tennis observer, I wonder why Orlik is still playing in this ITF Grade 4 tourney. At the recent grand slam Aussie Open last month, she finished as quarter-finalist when she lost to world numero uno Thai sensation, Noppawan "Nok" Lertcheewakarn 1-6, 0-6.

Limantoro and Ravita ended in the second round of Mexico ITF Grade 4

"International Junior Open Club Casablanca", an ITF Grade 4 tournament in Mexico City, Mexico just completed on Saturday, February 14, 2009 on hard court of Club Casablanca. Two junior players who participated in this tourney, Surabaya resident Christina Limantoro and Jakarta born Nadia Ravita had the same result as they finished in round 32 or second round (draw 64). Limantoro, just turned 17 years old and placed as 16th seed crushed Mexican Diana Reverte 6-0, 6-0 in the first round. Currently ranked ITF 993 as per February 16, 2009, Limantoro, a student at Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Bradenton, Florida, was forced to pack her bag when she bowed out to Karina Hinojosa of Mexico 2-,6 5-7 in the second round. Same outcome experienced by Limantoro's younger compatriot, Ravita. Currently ranked at ITF 1091 as at February 16, 2009, Ravita edged past local wild card Maria Sandoval 6-0, 6-4 in the opening round. Unfortunately, she was beaten by 6th seed Juliana Gajic of Canada 1-6, 3-6 in the second round, too. Gajic is now at ITF 413 and no accident indeed, both Indonesian girls lost in the second round while their opponents, Gajic and Hinojosa finished here as quarter-finalists.

Different results posted by these two girls in doubles. Partnering with German Frizzi Bschorer, duo Bschorer/Limantoro had relatively comfortable 6-2, 6-3 victory over Sarah Ellen Hofmann/Salua Pizano (Germany/Mexico) in the first round (draw 32). Then Bschorer/Limantoro lost to US pair Kate Fuller/Monica Yajima 4-6, 4-6 in round 16. Meanwhile, Ravita partnered with Simone Pratt of the Bahamas and instantly bowed out to local pair, Alejandra Granillo/Nadine Ruegg 0-6, 4-6 in the opening round.

Duo R, Rungkat and Rompies new winners of Cigna Open 2009

The most prestigious national tourney known as “Cigna Open” in its 10th consecutive year finally ended yesterday and the main sponsor PT Asuransi Cigna can be proud as their tourney is indeed still rain survivor all these years. The final day at Sultan Hotel Executive Club was interrupted with showers for several times. Men's singles final was scheduled at 09.30 AM and soon after both players, top seed Christopher Rungkat and fifth seed Nesa Arta completed their warm-up, the match was postponed due to rain. Then after such delay, the match continued only until Rungkat was ahead 3-2 (0-30) and rain fell again. After 1 hour and 10 minutes or so, the battle between two Davis Cup team mates was resumed and as predicted Rungkat played very well with higher level of tennis than his opponent. Equipped with agile footwork, good return serve and precised shot placement, Rungkat was practically control the whole match with 6-2, 6-1 victory. As Rungkat took his first title here at this tourney, he set the benchmark as the youngest ever winner of "Cigna Open". In my opinion, his achievement will be a record for along time, as I do not see any prospective young boy as of now or even in the near future.

Women's singles final fielded top seed and recent Fed Cup team member, Jessy Rompies who defeated third seed and fans' favorite Grace Sari Ysidora 6-4, 6-2. Ysidora began her campaign with holding serve and suddenly it rained again. Both finalists had to wait for about 4 hours until they resumed their final match at court number 9 as the sun went down already. Apparently the center court was not dry enough for the showdown. Eventually Rompies ended her rusty condition in a revenge stint over Ysidora. She looked confident and fresher than her younger opponent despite such long delay.

As for Ysidora, she did not seem to be in her best physical condition and she did not apply her typical attacking game at all. In the second set, only in three games, fans could witness an intense fight between the two players. Rompies deserved to claim "Cigna Open" title for the very first time as she was already runner-up last year. While Ysidora became the second youngest runner-up in the history of "Cigna Open" after Lutfiana Aris Budiharto made it in 2006.

Match statistics: Rompies (58% 1st serve percentage, 5 aces, 3 double faults, 15 winners, 26 unforced errors); Ysidora (63% 1st serve percentage, no ace and double fault, 9 winners, 26 unforced errors).

Men's doubles final on court number 4 became a close battle only in the second set. In the opening set, top seed pair Rungkat/Arta sealed 6-1 victory. Then the older pair and second seed, Andrian Raturandang/Bonit Wiryawan challenged the younger pair all the way to force tie break but in the end, Rungkat/Arta secured 7-4 to win it. So, both Rungkat and Rompies were successful in grabbing singles and doubles titles.

For the next "Cigna Open", it will be nice to provide players' lounge as it is a common facility for players based on my observation when I visited ATP Bangkok, WTA Pattaya, Japan Open in Tokyo for example. All these years, at the "gazebo" of Sultan Hotel I experienced a crowded atmosphere where officials, players, families and journalists were all flocked in the same area. In the case of player does not attend the opening ceremony, prize money deduction must be higher, not only ten percent but it can be between thirty to fifty percent. Therefore, some arrogant top players and even mediocre players who claimed to be good, they should check-in into themselves whether or not they are ready to sharpen their professional attitude.

Picture is private collection

Ysidora ousted Gumulya to challenge Rompies in the final

The prestigious "10th Cigna Open" completed semi-finals of men's singles, women's singles and men's doubles along with women's doubles final yesterday at The Executive Club of Sultan Hotel, Jakarta. The first two matches were men's singles semi-finals at 9 AM. On the center court, top seed Christopher Rungkat battled against fourth seed Andrian Raturandang. Highly experienced Raturandang earned his first game immediately but then Rungkat romped with six games in a row to close the opening set 6-1.

In the second set, Indonesian numero uno Rungkat quickly cruised to lead 3-1. Raturandang kept the ball in play and challenged his much younger opponent to level it up 3-3. From then on, Rungkat was unstoppable with such better game penetration into Raturandang's weak spots to end the match 6-3. In the other semi-final showdown of two Davis Cup team mates, fifth seed Nesa Arta fired back from a deficit to beat the defending champion and second seed, Sunu Wahyu Trijati 3-6, 6-2, 6-0. In the final, Arta will play hot favorite Rungkat and it will be their second final against each other after "Garuda Indonesia Masters Series" last December when Rungkat came out as the winner.

Continued on the center court, it was women's singles semi-final between wild card yet second seed Beatrice Gumulya who clashed with third seed Grace Sari Ysidora. Opening the first set, Ysidora held her own serve with love game to be on board 1-0. It was Gumulya's turn to hold her serve then, 1-1. Ysidora did not waste her time to speed-up her pace to further lead 3-1 after she held another serve and broke Gumulya's. Younger sister of Sandy Gumulya instantly broke back to make it closer, 3-2. Ysidora played with her typical attacking game in earning two more games to reach set point 5-2. But then Gumulya was able to hold her serve to closer the gap 5-3 and in the end Ysidora stayed aggressive to take the opening set 6-3.

In the early part of the second set, Ysidora romped to lead 2-0 and Gumulya held her serve to make it 2-1. Since then Ysidora consistently hit various shots into the baseline and did not give Gumulya chances to utilize her own game. 15 years old Ysidora closed the match by breaking 18 years old Gumulya's serve as she hit forehand winner and sealed comfortable 6-1 in second set.

During the match, Ysidora had 14 winners, 16 unforced errors, 62% first serve percentage with no double fault. While Gumulya had 6 winners, 29 unforced errors, 56% first serve percentage and 2 double faults. Such victory by Ysidora over Gumulya was no surprise at all. Prior to this meeting, Ysidora has been leading 2-0 in her head to head with Gumulya. Both wins of Ysidora happened in 2007. At U-16 National Selection, Ysidora who was 13 years old at that time defeated 16 years old Gumulya then 6-2, 6-4. Later on at ITF Grade 4 in Solo, Central Java, Ysidora gunned down Gumulya 6-4, 6-3 in the final. Ysidora claimed her first ITF Grade 4 title when she was only 13 years old at Brunei in 2006 and until last June, this Batak descendant has collected total of 4 ITF Grade titles. In contrast, Gumulya a "late bloomer" just got her maiden ITF Grade 4 title at Solo, Central Java last November. Ysidora decided to play higher ITF Grade tourney so she played ITF Grade 3 in Sarawak where she was semi-finalist.

After three ealier rounds of topsy turvy for Rompies, this top seed had a relief yesterday as her semi-final match was so easy. Rompies took the first set 6-2 over fourth seed Mia Sacca then Sacca chose to retire due to her illness. Later in the day, Rompies returned to the court with her doubles partner, Gumulya and as top seed pair was scheduled to play against third seed duo Bella Destriana/Cynthia Melita. As solid pair, Rompies/Gumulya experienced difficulty as duet Destriana/Melita showed their fighting spirit towards doubles' semi-finalists at US Open 2008. Eventually, Rompies/Gumulya grabbed the title with 6-4, 6-4 victory.

In men's doubles semi-finals, top seed pair Rungkat/Arta slightly struggled against unseeded duet of Peter Handoyo/Andery Setyawanto but they managed to win 6-4, 6-4. In another semifinal, second seed pair Andrian Raturandang/Bonit Wiryawan had an easy stint as they crushed fifth seed duo Michael Christian/Surya Wijaya Budi 6-1, 6-2.

In the middle of “Cigna Open” tennis enthusiasts still talked about lack of intention to play for this tourney by the "elite" players of "Big Mama" camp. As informed by one of the officials of Indonesia Tennis Association, the "elite" camp's forever head coach, Suzanna Anggarkusuma apparently did not plan her entourage to enter "Cigna Open" at all. By doing it, the "elite" camp showed a disrespect attitude towards PT Asuransi Cigna, the main sponsor of this popular national tourney. Furthermore, an official from Indonesia Tennis Association conveyed that Anggarkusuma arrogantly asked for an appearance fee if her entourage asked to play for any tourney in the future. Such manner by her was not surprising at all as she has been notorious in creating controversies for many years. Anggarkusuma has been enjoying "privilege" status by hiding behind "tennis diva" Martina Widjaja's very expensive gown. It is truly a chronic disease inside "elite" Indonesian tennis and it has been lingering for many years but no one dares to speak-up or to criticize such irresponsible conduct. It is now or never to have a major overhaul within Indonesian Tennis in particular the "first layer" of it. Or else, tennis freaks will topple this highly-confident tennis regime. Yes, the heat should be much hotter from now on.

Rompies' rustytale continues on

"10th Cigna Open" with total prize money of 200 million rupiahs completed quarter-finals in men's and women's singles category yesterday at Tennis Complex of Sultan Hotel's Executive Club in Jakarta yesterday. Top seed Jessy Rompies faced eighth seed and 15 years old Cynthia Melita from Salatiga, Central Java. It was truly a battle between a member and former member of "Big Mama" camp. Last year Melita Melita was trained at the elite camp owned by affluent Martina Widjaja for few months. Then she decided to leave the controversial camp with personal reason.

Rompies along the match still played an erratic game but with her solid groundstrokes she managed to take 6-1 in the opening set. Melita put more pressure by hitting strong forehand which made her older opponent to be frustrated. Rompies looked fragile mentally and as results, she made number of unforced errors. Melita's persistent effort paid-off as she closed the second set 6-4. In the final set, long rallies colored the match and Melita kept on shooting the balls into the baseline but eventually Rompies secured her semi-final spot with 6-1 victory.

Second seed and wild card, Beatrice Gumulya also faced another challenge by sixth seed Laili Rahmawati Ulfa but in the end Gumulya prevailed to win 6-3, 7-5. Third seed Grace Sari Ysidora played very bad in the first set as her improved opponent, a qualifier Angelika Jogasuria showed her typical flat two-handed forehand and backhand. Despite her sluggish performance, Ysidora took the first set 6-4. In the second set, 15 years old Ysidora slightly changed her game pattern and did not have trouble to finish the second set 6-1. Last but not least a "veteran" among the top four seeds, fourth seed Mia Sacca had such an easy match and defeated first time quarter-finalist in senior pro, Rani Fitria Wardhani, 6-3, 6-1. It will be perfect semi-finals as all top four seeds through. Rompies will be tested against Sacca while Gumulya will be challenged by Ysidora.

In men's singles, top seed Christopher Rungkat had a little scare in the first set, but he romped in the second set to secure his 6-4, 6-2 victory over 10th seed tall Aditya Hari Sasongko. Second seed and defending champion Sunu Wahyu Trijati did not have much problem to oust first time quarter-finalist in senior pro, 17 years old David Agung Susanto, 6-2, 6-0. In the battle of Davis Cup team mates, fifth seed Nesa Arta won back to back against third seed Prima Simpatiaji 6-2, 6-3. In the previous meeting, Arta also defeated Simpatiaji at "2008 Garuda Indonesia Tennis Masters". The longest match was between fourth seed Andrian Raturandang and eighth seed Sebastian Dacosta as both players demonstrated a contest of variety of groundstrokes. Raturandang came from behind to beat Dacosta 2-6, 6-2, 6-3. In today's semi-finals, Rungkat will play against 32 years old Raturandang, while Trijati will face Arta.

Rusty Rompies Part Two

The most consistent and committed "10th Cigna Open" with total prize money of 200 million rupiahs became more interesting as per today, February 12, 2009. Top seed in women's singles, Jessy Rompies was still under pressure mentally and as consequence, she still played with below average level of performance in the second round against 14 years old Dina Karina. In the opening set, Rompies easily earned three games in a row and she began to face challenge from her younger opponent. Karina took an opportunity to play more aggressive and she fought harder and collected three games in a row to level-up, 3-3 and even Karina led 4-3. Then Rompies found her game back to close it out, 6-4. In the second set, soon to be 19 years old Rompies had an early lead again 3-1 and "deja vu", Karina kept on fighting to get into 3-3 again. An experienced player, Rompies regained her control of the game to lead 5-3 but Karina made her nervous as she made the gap closer to 4-5. Eventually, Rompies ended her erratic saga number two with 6-4 victory. Immediately after the match, the everlasting head coach at "Big Mama" camp, Suzanna Anggarkusuma asked Rompies to go to court number 4 at The Executive Club of Sultan Hotel. Indeed, Anggarkusuma punished Rompies to practice more as way to improve her performance in the quarter-final. What a show of force by "the most powerful" coach in Indonesia!

Other players advanced into the quarter finals were second seed Beatrice Gumulya, third seed Grace Sari Ysidora, fourth seed Mia Sacca, sixth seed Laili Rahmawati Ulfa, eighth seed Cynthia Melita, qualifier Angelina Jogasuria and unseeded Rani Fitria Wardhani. Younger Gumulya had an easy match and won 6-1, 6-0 over Vanesa Gunawan. Talented Ysidora did not play at her best but she still managed to overcome talented 13 years old qualifier Indhun Safa'ati of Central Java. Ysidora won 6-2, 6-1. Sacca faced tough battle against her junior, Tria Rizki Amalia in three sets of 7-6(1), 6-7(4), 6-2. Meanwhile Rahmawati Ulfa crushed lucky loser yet funky Michelle Julia Sanger 6-2, 6-0. Hard hitter Melita did not have to go to the court at all since her opponent, qualifier Angelina Jogasuria had fever, so this Salatiga resident Melita won by walk over. The other Jogasuria secured her ticket into the last eight round by defeating wild card Bella Destriana, 6-2, 6-1. Last but not least, a credit should be given to Wardhani who ousted an experienced seventh seed Dian Anggraini with 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 victory.

In the men's singles, top seed Christopher Rungkat had much better speed than 40 years old Bonit Wiryawan as Rungkat sealed 6-2, 6-2 victory. Second seed and defending champion, Sunu Wahyu Trijati had exactly the same scoreline as Rungkat when he dispatched Setyo Dwi Ariyanto. Third seed Prima Simpatiaji ended Michael Christian's run by winning 6-2, 6-1. Fourth seed Andrian Raturandang proved as better player than talented 17 years old Tito Parulian Hutauruk, 6-3, 6-2. Also advancing into the last eight round, fifth seed Nesa Arta, eighth seed Sebastian Dacosta, tenth seed Aditya Hari Sasongko, and eleventh seed David Agung Susanto. Dacosta had the toughest match among all the winners today as he eventually battled past 12th seed and four-time champion of "Cigna Open", Febi Widhiyanto in three, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2.

Rusty Rompies pushed all the way by Darlina

Two top seeds of women’s singles Jessy Rompies and Beatrice Gumulya reached the second round of the 10th Cigna Open at The Executive Club’s Tennis Complex of Sultan Hotel, Jakarta yesterday. While second seed Gumulya had a light workout in her 6-0, 6-3 win over wild card Aldila Sutjiadi, top seed Rompies played an erratic game but she saved by the bell to eventually defeat 13 years old Voni Darlina 6-4, 7-5.

A credit to Darlina who played nothing to lose and demonstrated good fighting spirit against rusty and error prone Rompies. Along the match, Darlina showed her determination, persistency and concentration in answering all this experienced recent Fed Cup member’s strong groundstrokes. In a number of opportunities, Darlina gave some surprising shots back and Rompies either hit into the net or just wide. Rompies did not look fresh as she arrived from Perth, Australia last Monday night and with possible jet lag problem, so she did not have enough body clock recovery despite only two hours time difference between Jakarta and Perth. But it seemed she had no mental toughness after all. Lack of physical fitness was just a typical excuse as the cause of her topsy turvy opening performance. Nevertheless, Rompies’ good second serve, particularly few aces in such serve really helped her to win the match.

In the other match, 18 years old Gumulya proved her longer experience as an advantage to beat 13 years old Sutjiadi. Younger Gumulya committed 16 unforced errors which mostly came from her forehand, while Sutjiadi made 21 unforced errors. Gumulya shot total of 10 winners from her forehand, while her opponent only secured 6 winners. Other match statistics: Gumulya with 58% 1st serve percentage, 1 ace, 1 double fault; Sutjiadi with 62% 1st serve percentage and 2 double faults. In the second set, Gumulya cruised comfortably to lead 5-0 but failed to create double bagel as she sprayed several errors from her racquet so then Sutjiadi was able to earn 3 games in a row. In the end Gumulya regained her own game to close it out 6-3.

Four members of Davis Cup squad all through into the third round. Only third seed Prima Simpatiaji had an easy match, while top seed Christopher Rungkat, second seed Sunu Wahyu Trijati and fifth seed Nesa Arta forced to work harder against their opponents. Big server Simpatiaji did not have much problem to beat former Davis Cup team member, Edy Kusdaryanto 6-1, 6-1. Recent winner of “Garuda Indonesia Tennis Masters” Rungkat was challenged by qualifier Ariawan Poerboadinoto before he won 6-4, 6-4. Rungkat’s statisctics of 81% first serve percentage, 1 ace, 18 winners and 23 unforced errors barely made a victory over Poerboadinoto with 68% first serve percentage, 3 aces, 4 double faults, 13 winners and 27 unforced errors.

Second seed and defending champion Trijati had to utilize all his groundstrokes to end courageous fight by Agung Bagus Dewantoro with 7-6(1), 6-4 victory. While runner-up of “2008 Garuda Indonesia Tennis Masters” Arta faced the challenge of big and tall Dadang AR then only to prevail 7-5, 6-3. A couple of upsets snatched by Michael Christian and Setyo Dwi Andriyanto. Seed number 15 Ganang Suryaatmaja crashed out as Christian came from behind to beat him 4-6, 6-0, 7-6(7). Then it was Andriyanto’s turn to send thirteenth seed Enrico Satria home earlier as Andriyanto posted 6-2, 6-4 victory.

Other players who continued on to the third round such as veteran Bonit Wiryawan,(4)Andrian Raturandang,(6) Faisal Aidil,(7) Surya Wijaya Budi,(8) Sebastian Dacosta,(9) Andery Setyawanto,(10) Aditya Hari Sasongko,(11) David Agung Susanto and last but not least 4 times winner of Cigna Open, 12th seed and father of new baby girl, Febi Widhiyanto.

Indonesian players' lack of respect towards Cigna Open

The continuous "Cigna Open" in its 10th year commitment was officially opened today at 9 am on the center court of The Executive Club's Tennis Complex at Sultan Hotel, Jakarta. The organizing committee had set an announcement a couple days prior to the opening ceremony that all players had no exception but they had to attend it and in the case of their no show, there will be 10% deduction of the prize money given to them. There were a number young players who came late to this important moment of the tourney. It was very disappointing indeed to witness that few players did not have their shoes on, instead they used slippers. The worst thing, two members of Davis Cup players along with several players did not bother to be present and one player said that 10% deduction of the prize money was no big deal for him. This disrespect attitude was intolerable at all. It showed that again and again Indonesian players in general had small appreciation towards the sponsor. Can these players imagine if PT Asuransi Cigna decide to end their commitment in funding a tourney? Why can;t the players equal the sponsor's commitment?

In the third day of "10th Cigna Open", there were three interesting matches in the opening round of men's singles. A veteran player from Surabaya, 40 years old Bonit Wiryawan had to face strong challenge from 32 years old Yusmawan Fahmi. Both players put an energetic showdown with their groundstroke contest and long rallies, but in the end Wiryawan prevailed to clinch 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 victory over Semarang resident Fahmi. Meanwhile 16 years old Michael Christian survived a sizzling hot battle against Central Kalimantan player, Panji Bana. Christian eventually won 7-6(4), 4-6, 7-6(5). A duel of qualifiers between 29 years old Ferdy Fauzi and his 13 years younger opponent, Michael Weiss Pedersen. The younger player shocked an experienced Fauzi when he took the first set, 6-3. Pedersen put a hard fight along the match and made Fauzi gave everything he got then he secured his 6-2, 6-1 in the two remaining sets.

As the two highest seeds in women's singles requested to play on Wednesday, February 11, 2009, so third seed Grace Sari Ysidora was scheduled to open her campaign on center court. Ysidora took only 52 minutes to beat Kely Restiana Putri 6-0, 6-2. Ysidora was simply dominating the first set with her typical attacking game equipped with good serve. In the second set, this number two junior player in Indonesia quickly cruised on and led 3-0 but then she lost her concentration which made Putri earned 2 games in a row. It was like a wake-up call then for Ysidora as she regrouped and returned to her own game plan to win 6-2 eventually. During the match, Ysidora produced winners mostly from her lethal forehand.

Match statistics: Ysidora (60% 1st serve percentage, 4 double faults, 13 winners, 9 unforced errors); Putri (47% 1st serve percentage, 7 double faults, 1 winner, 15 unforced errors)

Other players also advanced into the second round such as eighth seed Cynthia Melita who double bageled 37 years old Dewi Fortuna, then fourth seed Mia Sacca also won easily 6-0, 6-0 over Dina Azwar. Wild card Bella Destriana defeated fifth seed Priscilla Anggrenny Oky Suconong 6-3, 6-3 to book a second round ticket, along with seventh seed Dian Anggraini, sixth seed Laili Rahmawati Ulfa.

Sneak Preview:Rungkat is a red hot favorite while three up and coming girls are in possible tight competition

The most prestigious "10th Cigna Open 2009" has been underway since February 8 with qualifying rounds both in singles and doubles for men and women. Eight players secured their berth as qualifiers in men's singles: top seed Ariawan Purboadinoto, a Jakarta resident but he has been representing North Sulawesi. Followed by unseeded Indra Utomo of East Java who had tough 3 sets in the final qualifying against second seed Wibisana Prasetya, an Indian descendant. Third seed Skiva Sumual also through accompanied by unseeded Ahmad Mu'tamir of Yogyakarta who ousted fourth seed Sinatrya Putra. A young Dane and Jakarta resident at the same time, Michael Pedersen as tenth seed is adding the list of qualifiers. Three remaining spots in the main draw are sixth seed Ferdi Fauzi, seventh seed Ade Anugrah Saputra and unseeded teenager Wisnu Adi Nugroho of Central Java.

All players from top seed of the draw all the way to 16th seed received opening round bye. In top-half of the draw, first seed Christopher Rungkat is possible to clash with seventh seed Surya Wijaya Budi in the quarter-final. Meanwhile fourth seed Andrian Raturandang may battle against eighth seed Sebastian Dacosta or 12th seed Febi Widhiyanto. In bottom-half of the draw, Davis Cup team mates fifth seed Nesa Arta and third seed Prima Simpatiaji may have to face each other in the last eight round. Last but not least, possible quarter-final showdown is between second seed and the defending champion Sunu Wahyu Trijati against sixth seed Faisal Aidil or number one junior player and eleventh seed David Agung Susanto.

In women's qualifying only four slots are designated for the main draw. The qualifiers are unseeded Efrilya Herlina of East Java, unseeded Idhun Safa'ati of Central Java, sixth seed Angelina Jogasuria and her unseeded twin sister, Angelika Jogasuria.

Top seed and recent Fed Cup team member, Jessy Rompies is likely to have "cake walk" towards the final. She is likely to meet eight seeded Cynthia Melita in the quarter-final. Possible last eight round battle will be between fourth seed Mia Sacca and seventh seed Dian Anggraini. The other candidates in the last eight round are wild card and second seed Beatrice Gumulya may face sixth seed Laili Rahmawati Ulfa, while third seed Grace Sari Ysidora is likely to play against fifth seed Priscilla Anggrenny Oky Suconong or wild card Bella Destriana.

Younger Gumulya became back to back doubles' semi-finalist of Grand Slam

Beatrice Gumulya, 18 years old and the current number one junior player in Indonesia should be proud of her record in her 5th appearance of Junior Grand Slam. Playing at 2009 Aussie Open at Melbourne Park, younger sister of Sandy Gumulya was placed as 15th seed. In the opening round, Gumulya faced a tough challenge from American Ester Goldfeld but she was able to close it out with 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 victory. In round 32, Gumulya had to face tougher battle and again she was successfully won over Slovak Zuzana Luknarova 7-6(6), 4-6, 6-2. In round 16, eventually she bowed out to third seed from Russia, Ksenia Pervak, 2-6, 1-6. Pervak was the eventual winner of this first Grand Slam of the season.

In doubles, reunited with Thai Noppawan Lertcheewakarn, they were the second seed pair in the draw. In round 32 Gumulya/Lertcheewakarn breezed past wild card Aussie pair, Sophie Letcher/Olivia Rich 6-1, 6-3. In round 16, duo Indonesia and Thai had to work hard until they posted a victory of 4-6, 7-5, 10-5 over Japanese duo, Miyabi Inoue/Aki Yamasoto. The second seed pair got lucky in the quarter-final as they won walk over their opponent, Anna Orlik/Laura Robson (Belarus/Great Britain). In the semi-final, finally Gumulya/Lertcheewakarn lost to Alexandra Krunic/Sandra Zaniewska (Serbia/Poland) 2-6, 6-7(2). With this semi-final result, Gumulya made her last four round as she did it with her compatriot Jessy Rompies at 2008 US Open.

Meanwhile, sixth seed in the qualifying round Grace Sari Ysidora did not play her best after she was up 4-2 in the opening set. She eventually lost to her nemesis and 14th seed, Luksika Kumkhum of Thailand 4-6, 0-6. Ysidora's result was expected as she was a rookie at Aussie Open and she still needed to brush-up her overall game if she wanted to play in higher level of tennis.

10th Cigna Open is just around the corner

The strong commitment of PT Asuransi Cigna towards national tennis no need to be questioned at all. The one and only "Cigna Open" will be held again from February 8-15, 2009. This tourney is always the early bird in the national circuit calendar. While in the midst of global financial crisis many companies have withdrawn their sponsorship for sport events, PT Asuransi Cigna has its firm stand to maintain their prestigious tournament.

For the very first time, "Cigna Open" started in the year of 2000 and in its first year, the total prize money was merely 35 million rupiahs. Each year PT Asuransi Cigna increases total prize money in the amount of 20 million rupiahs. This year it is approaching its 10th years of excellence and the total prize money is 200 million rupiahs. As explained by Mr. Ian Cooper, President Director of PT Asuransi Cigna, the amount of 130 million rupiahs will be allocated into men's category, while 70 million rupiahs for women's category.

No doubt this tourney is still the darling for many players and it is indeed very special. Only "Cigna Open" waive the tax for players and it has become their trademark for years. Entry fees are being donated to the needies from year to year as well. In commemorating its 10th years, PT Asuransi Cigna provides free accident insurance not only for players, but also for officials and journalists during the tournament.

"Cigna Open" took place at Senayan Tennis Complex only in the year of 2000, 2001 and 2005. Since 2002 until now, "Cigna Open" has been taking place at Tennis Complex of The Sultan Hotel Executive Club. From all the winners of this tourney who eventually clinched world achievement was Angelique Widjaja, winner of "2001 Cigna Open". Later on Widjaja won Wimbledon Junior in the same year then in 2002 she grabbed French Open Junior title.

PT Asuransi Cigna has been wondering why four top players inside national top five did not enter this time. The four top players are Sandy Gumulya, Ayu Fani Damayanti, Lavinia Tananta and Beatrice Gumulya. At the press conference on February 3, 2009 the tourney's officials distributed women's final entry list and the top seed is the privilege of Jessy Rompies (ranked 4 nationally), followed by Grace Sari Ysidora (ranked 7 nationally) as second seed. As informed by Mr. Johanes Susanto from National Tennis Association, Mrs. Martina Widjaja, the President of the highest body for national tennis is indeed respecting "Cigna Open" and she decided to provide higher ranking points for the players who will participate in this tourney. Why did Rompies enter then? As we all know, Rompies and those four players are from the same elite tennis camp owned by Mrs. Widjaja. Sure, all of them are now members of Fed team and they are playing Asia Oceania qualifying round of Group I in Perth, Australia. It is very impossible that they did not know the exact schedule of "Cigna Open". After all, these five girls are managed by very experienced coach, Suzanna Anggarkusuma.

In men's category, possible fierce competition will be led by Indonesian numero uno, Christopher Rungkat and followed by his Davis Cup team mates such as Sunu Wahyu Trijati, Prima Simpatiaji and Nesa Arta. Only number two of Indonesia will not participate as Elbert Sie has informed to the press last December that he planned to study overseas. One thing is so amazing till now, despite its schedule is in the middle of wet season, "Cigna Open" has always been on schedule until the final matches. Forever "Cigna Open"!