Anna: "Looking forward to facing Amelie"
February 7, 2008
Through to the quarterfinals after downing Nathalie Dechy, Anna Chakvetadze was happy with her first-round match. And, she is looking forward to facing home-crowd favorite Amélie Mauresmo in the next round.
Anna, how would you rate your performance today?
I wasn't expecting such an easy match. That could explain that short lapse of concentration in the second set when Nathalie raised her level a bit. It was my first match indoors and I hope to improve going into the next round.
What happened in the second set. You had a 3 love lead but let Dechy back in the set. Was it due to a lapse in concentration or did your opponent just raise her level?
A little of both. Everything started so well and I felt like the match would get easier and easier. But, you've got to stay focused on every point.
Did you get a little worried when Dechy levelled the second set at 3-3?
Not really. I got things back on track right away and took the last three games.
"Not the favorite"
How are you feeling now that the tournament has started?
For a first-round match, I'm feeling good. I warmed up on Court I and was happy to take to Central Court. I like the way it plays.
You might face Amélie Mauresmo in the quarterfinals.
(Laughs) We'll see. I know the fans will be on her side, but I'm looking forward to facing Amélie here in Paris. I think we would have a good match. But, she has to get past Daniilidou first…
With your number 1 seed, do you feel like the favorite here?
Not at all. I'm taking it one match at a time without looking too far ahead.