Svetlana Kuznetsova

2004 US Open tennis champion Svetlana Kuznetsova recently overtook Maria Sharapova as Russia's top ranked women's singles player when she finished the year at number 2 on the WTA ranking. The outgoing player is a crowd favourite, and one of the few players on the WTA circuit capable of denying Justine Henin at the 2008 US Open.

Player Biography

Svetlana Kuznetsova was born in St. Petersburg in 1985. Her father was the national coach of the Russian cycling team and had coached both Svetlana's brother and mother to international titles. Despite starting off her career in cycling, Svetlana displayed a far greater aptitude for tennis, and was sent for coaching in Barcelona at the age of 13.

Career

Svetlana Kuznetsova joined the professional circuit in 2000 at the age of 15, failing to make an impact on top levels tennis and finishing her first year as a pro ranked below 800 in the world. The following year saw the young player climb 500 places in the rankings, however Kuznetsova failed to make a significant breakthrough in her second year in the WTA.

Grand Slam Record

In 2002 Svetlana Kuznetsova made her debut at the US and Australian Opens, performing particularly well in the US Open where she reached the third round. The year also saw her achieve her WTA breakthrough winning titles in Helsinki and Bali.

After a disappointing season in 2003, Svetlana Kuznetsova enjoyed an excellent season in 2004, winning two WTA titles and capping the year off with a classy performance at the US Open where she beat compatriot Elena Dementiava by straight sets in the final.

Since taking her maiden grand slam title Svetlana Kuztnetsova has failed to win another grand slam. Despite this she continues to be a powerful presence on the WTA and has taken another 4 WTA titles whilst being losing finalist on another 8 occasions.

Svetlana Kuznetskova has also become a regular fixture in the final rounds of the grand slams, reaching the French Open final in 2006 and her second US Open final in 2007. The Russian is also a three-times quarterfinalist at Wimbledon.

Playing Style

Svetlana Kutznetsova is a powerful baselines player. Kuznetsova's excellent forehand is her most potent weapon, allowing her to dictate play with subtle variations in speed and spin. Her biggest weakness is a tendency to break down technically in high-pressure situations.