News APP

NewsApp (Free)

Read news as it happens
Download NewsApp

Available on  gplay

Home  » Sports » Dementieva wins Istanbul Cup

Dementieva wins Istanbul Cup

May 26, 2007 20:46 IST
Get Rediff News in your Inbox:

Elena Dementieva won the Istanbul Cup on Saturday after her opponent, surprise finalist Aravane Rezai, retired hurt in the second set with the Russian leading 7-6, 3-0.

It was a disappointing end to the tournament for the unseeded French player who had pulled off a series of giant-killing victories on her way to the final.

Rezai beat fourth seed Venus Williams in the second round before defeating top seed Maria Sharapova 6-2 6-4 in the semi-finals.

On Friday, Rezai suffered a slight leg injury which flared up during Saturday's final, prompting her to retire after losing her first two service games in the second set.

"I feel sorry for her because she didn't finish the match but it was a good match, especially in the first set," said second seed Dementieva.

"This is my first win of the year and I feel so happy today. I don't know how I will play in the French Open but I'm very happy for today," the Russian added.

The first set was closely fought with each player breaking serve three times before Dementieva won the tiebreak 7-5.

Dementieva said earlier this month that she had considered retirement after suffering a stress fracture of three ribs while working with a new physical trainer in Moscow.

Get Rediff News in your Inbox:
Source: REUTERS
© Copyright 2024 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

New Zealand's tour of India 2024

New Zealand's Tour Of India, 2024