September 14, 2008
Tamira Paszek of Austria will face 2nd seeded and "veteran" Patty Schnyder from Switzerland in today's final of the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nusa Dua, Bali. Yesterday, 17 years old Paszek continued her run by cruising past top seed Daniela Hantuchova of Slovakia in such grueling three sets 6-2, 5-7, 6-4. Earlier in the 1st semi-final, Schnyder won a tight 1st set but then crushed 4th seeded Nadia Petrova from Russia in the 2nd set for a 7-5, 6-1 victory.
Schnyder makes her 1st final appearance here in Bali and certainly she is highly motivated to earn her 11th title to be noted in her career record. Her last title was at 2005 Cincinnati. The younger Paszek will be performing her 2nd final of her career. Her 1st final at 2006 Portoroz when she was 15 years old and it was indeed putting her on the list of Open Era Tour's Champions by grabbing the maiden title.
Schnyder and Paszek have battled twice before, splitting the series, 1-1. Paszek created her shock by gunning down Schnyder in their first meeting in the third round of 2007 US Open, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(1). Then at Doha earlier this year the lefty Swiss got her revenge in the first round,winning 6-4, 6-0.
Schnyder has been looking very fit all this week in Bali,while Paszek has shown her determination and has played twice in thrilling three sets. Schnyder with her vast experience should be able to make Paszek uneasy by forcing her to chase her top spins from side to side. By maintaining her calmness and being relaxed, these are advantages for quarter-finalist at recent US Open to end her title drought. On the other hand, Paszek must serve well combined with her strong backhand to counter her opponent's strategy. Her defense will be crucial indeed in retrieving Schnyder's tactical attack. Nevertheless, mental toughness will become vital for both finalists.
Photo - courtesy of commbanktennis.com
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