Sunday, January 20, 2013
Makarova wields Melbourne magic with Kerber win
By Ian Ransom
MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Ekaterina Makarova sprung a second successive fourth round upset at the Australian Open when the Russian completed a 7-5 6-4 victory over fifth seed Angelique Kerber on Sunday.
Ekaterina Makarova of Russia celebrates defeating Angelique Kerber of Germany in their women's singles match at the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne, January 20, 2013. REUTERS/David GrayThe 19th seed started brightly and survived a wobble to close out the first set before going on to defeat her injury-hampered German opponent, the highest seed so far to lose in the women's draw, in one hour and 32 minutes with an ace.
Makarova advanced to her second consecutive quarter-final at Melbourne Park after matching her run at last year's tournament when she sensationally defeated five-time champion Serena Williams, who was also hindered by injury.
"It's an unbelievable feeling," the 24-year-old Muscovite said in a courtside interview at a sunbathed Rod Laver Arena.
"I really like to play here, everything is so perfect. My team did a really nice job."
Wimbledon semi-finalist Kerber received treatment on and off the court for a back complaint, which she said had affected her for two or three days.
"I was thinking it will be maybe not too bad, but in the first set I was feeling that and it was actually worse and worse," added the 25-year-old, who had felt the most pain during her serve.
Makarova will now meet second seeded compatriot Maria Sharapova, who ended her run 12 months ago.
After eliminating Williams as a 56th-ranked outsider, lefthander Makarova crumbled against Sharapova in the following match last year, managing only five games.
"I think it will be really interesting and I really want to play against her," Makarova said.
"Last year I was so surprised ... and had so many thoughts on my mind. This year, I'm a little bit used to it. I think I'll be ready to play a good game."
(Editing by Patrick Johnston)
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