Jul 09, 2003 04:18 AM
3684 Views
(Updated Jul 09, 2003 04:21 AM)
When was the last time Anna was anywhere near the top 10? The fact is, Anna Kournikouva was a decent player. However, there were several things that kept her from becoming what anyone would consider a good player.
Despite her occasional appearances toward the top of the rankings, Anna never won a WTA tournament. The reason became clear after several years of playing. She simply is not dedicated to the sport. Many people gather around courts just to watch Anna play. Why? She looks good. They cheer not when she wins a point, but when she takes off her warm up suit. Clearly, a tennis player as good looking as Anna can expect this and should learn to deal with it.
Instead, Anna opted to become a model. With all the modeling she does, its no wonder her tennis suffered. How can someone practice for five hours a day when they are needed for photo shoots, promotions, interviews etc.
In looking at tennis today, you rarely see Anna competing. In fact, she didn't even show up at Wimbledon this year. Instead of following Anna, I suggest keeping your eyes peeled for those ''rising Kournikouvas,'' as they are called.
For example, Daniela Hantuchova is now in the top ten as Anna once was. When asked about her potential to be the next Anna, she simply replies ''I have more interest in how I do on the court then off it. My focus is in my tennis.'' Let us hope that she sticks to this word, as this is how it should have been with Anna. Anna's priority simply was not the sport of tennis.