Hantuchova gets the rub of the green
Straight-sets Eastbourne defeat fails to tell entire story…
Anne Keothavong is out of the AEGON International singles draw after a 6-4 6-2 defeat to Slovakia’s Daniela Hantuchova in a match that was much closer than the scoreline might suggest.
The first-round encounter lasted more than one hour and 45 minutes on Devonshire Park’s Centre Court and featured a string of questionable line calls, two in particular in game six of the second set that could have changed the complexion of the contest.
“I don’t know what that umpire was thinking,” said Anne, who was trailing Hantuchova 3-2 at the time. “It’s a shame – had I got that game to go 3-3 I’m still in it, who knows what could have happened.”
Despite the defeat, there were plenty of positives for Anne to take out of another tough early draw following last week’s loss to world No.10 and eventual AEGON Classic champion Na Li.
Just four months after returning from a career-threatening knee injury, she is rightly pleased to be returning to the level that saw her reach a career-high ranking of No.48 last year.
“It was a tough battle for both of us, lots of close games,” said Anne. “I definitely feel I’m playing a better level of tennis than maybe my ranking suggests.”
“I’m in a good place, I’m injury free and that’s the main thing,” she added, “and I’m looking forward to Wimbledon.”
Anne is pairing up with Melanie South for the doubles event before returning to London to prepare for the Championships.