Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Federer, Roddick roll at Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. - Roger Federer’s first shot hit a light pole, and his third sailed over the upper deck out of the stadium.

No, Federer’s slump didn’t reach a new low Friday. He merely misfired a couple of times trying to whack souvenir balls into the stands after winning his opening match at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The two-time Key Biscayne champion beat American Kevin Kim 6-3, 6-2.

“Great start to the tournament,” Federer said.

He hopes to end a drought that has left him without a title in his past 12 Masters tournaments, the ATP Tour’s most prestigious events aside from the Grand Slams. His 4½-year reign atop the rankings ended last August when he was overtaken by nemesis Rafael Nadal, but Federer professes optimism that he has the ability to reclaim the top spot.

“The true understanders of the game know it doesn’t go that quickly,” he said.

His one-hour workout with Kim on stadium court was more like a practice session, especially in the second set. Federer played serve-and-volley and chip-and-charge much more than he would in a tight match.

“I was trying out a few things toward the end, that’s true,” he said. “I could take my foot off a little bit and just try out a few things.”

The No. 2-seeded Federer moved into the third round, where he’ll meet Nicolas Kiefer. Seeded players had first-round byes.

No. 5 Andy Roddick needed only 56 minutes to beat Diego Junqueira 6-1, 6-1. Also advancing were No. 3 Novak Djokovic, the 2007 champion, and No. 13 James Blake. Unseeded American Taylor Dent needed five match points to eliminate No. 19 Nicolas Almagro 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7).

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 22 Marat Safin defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, and his sister, No. 2 Dinara Safina, beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3.

Also reaching the third round in women’s play were two-time Grand Slam winner Amelie Mauresmo, Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Federer’s match was his first since the announcement this week of the annual ATP World Tour awards. He won the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship honor for a record fifth consecutive year and was chosen the favorite player for the sixth year in a row in a poll of fans.

He’s popular with South Florida’s many Latin and South American fans even though Spanish and Portuguese are not among the six languages he speaks.

“This morning I was signing autographs after my practice, and one guy was saying, ’You know, Brazil loves you,”’ Federer said with a smile. “Next guy, ’Venezuela, too.’ And ’Ecuador’ is the third guy, and then another guy, ’Dominican Republic as well.’ So it’s nice. They love tennis, which is good.”

In his 10th year on the tour, Federer conceded he’s less patient with the many demands on his time.

“I feel it just hanging around the courts,” he said. “I just don’t do it as much anymore. You just want to get away from the tennis scene, because maybe after playing 1,000 matches, you get sick and tired of seeing another 100,000 matches you’ve seen already. But still I try to give back to the fans by signing autographs and taking pictures while I’m at the site. Especially after practice, I like to take my time.”

The toll of the tennis grind may help explain the decline in the 27-year-old Federer’s fortunes. He has lost five consecutive matches against Nadal and four in a row against Andy Murray, and for the first time in five years, Federer’s not seeded No. 1 at Key Biscayne.

Marat Safin can relate — he briefly reached the No. 1 ranking in 2000.

“You can’t expect to be on top for 10 years,” Safin said. “New guys are coming. They’re hungry, they’re faster, they’re playing better. It’s something new for them.

“For Roger, he has already been on the tour for nine or 10 years and has seen everything. Guys see the opportunity of beating him, and that’s what happens. He’s getting old, and the young guys want to beat him. Eventually they will crack him down. The older he gets, the more people are going to beat him. That’s the way it is.”

Federer could meet Djokovic in the semifinals and Nadal in the final. He has won 31 consecutive matches against players ranked outside the top 10, suggesting he’s a near-lock to hang around for several more rounds.

That will give him time to work on his postmatch lobs into the stands.

Also on NBCSports.com

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Wenger - City fancied Henry

Arsene Wenger has claimed Manchester City were interested in signing Barcelona striker Thierry Henry last summer.

City have been linked with the Frenchman in the past, and recent reports have suggested they could be set to bid for his services at the end of this season.

Henry's future at Camp Nou has been uncertain since he joined them from Arsenal in 2007, however of late his form has improved and he looks likely to remain at Barca.

Wenger, who managed Henry for eight years at Arsenal, claims City were keen on the striker, but doubts if he would be interested in a return to the Premier League.

Wenger said in The Times : "I knew Man City were interested in getting him but he rightly decided to stay at Barcelona.

"What will he do next season? I'm not sure. I'm not convinced he wants to come back to England but he's free to decide what he wants."

Van der Vaart eyes Chelsea move

Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has announced his desire to leave the Bernabeu in the summer, and has Stamford Bridge in his sights.

The Dutch playmaker only moved to the Spanish giants last summer but after a bright start at the club, he has fallen down the pecking order under interim manager Juande Ramos.

With the World Cup in South Africa next year, the 26-year-old is eager to move for first-team football in order to remain part of the Holland squad, with London his preferred destination.

"Fortunately for me, Chelsea want me, so I have everything clear," he said on the Daily Mail online .

"If Guus Hiddink remains at the helm of Chelsea, I hope that the signing will be closed soon. I want to leave Real Madrid."

Rafa rules out Silva swoop

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has cooled speculation he is lining up a move for Valencia star David Silva by claiming he will not be signing the Spain international.

The attack-minded midfielder has long been linked with a transfer to Anfield and speculation has increased due to Liverpool's limited offensive options.

It was thought that Benitez was keen to fuse Silva, 23, into the Spanish backbone of his side, which already includes Jose Reina, Alvaro Arbeloa, Albert Riera, Xabi Alonso and Fernando Torres.

However, in the face of growing rumours, the former Mestalla boss has ruled out a bid to tempt cash-strapped Valencia to part with one of their most valuable assets.

"We will not be signing him," Benitez told Liverpool's official website when asked about the prospect of a close-season approach for Silva.

But with Torres the only recognised, experienced striker on Liverpool's books, it remains highly likely that attacking reinforcements will be made in the summer.

Cautious

And Benitez has confirmed that behind-the-scenes work is taking place as plans begin for new arrivals.

"We are working hard, talking with the scouting department and looking at names and options for next season," he added.

"It's still too soon, but we are working hard."

Meanwhile, Benitez remains cautious regarding Liverpool's chances of lifting the Premier League title, despite closing to within one point of leaders Manchester United.

He said: "Football can change very quickly and that is why we say it is important to just take one game at a time.

"Everything can change each week and maybe next week we can be at the top again.

"My message to the fans is to keep calm. I can see the people have a lot of confidence at the moment and that is good. We have to stay positive and see what happens."

Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Federer, Roddick roll at Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. - Roger Federer’s first shot hit a light pole, and his third sailed over the upper deck out of the stadium.

No, Federer’s slump didn’t reach a new low Friday. He merely misfired a couple of times trying to whack souvenir balls into the stands after winning his opening match at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The two-time Key Biscayne champion beat American Kevin Kim 6-3, 6-2.

“Great start to the tournament,” Federer said.

He hopes to end a drought that has left him without a title in his past 12 Masters tournaments, the ATP Tour’s most prestigious events aside from the Grand Slams. His 4½-year reign atop the rankings ended last August when he was overtaken by nemesis Rafael Nadal, but Federer professes optimism that he has the ability to reclaim the top spot.

“The true understanders of the game know it doesn’t go that quickly,” he said.

His one-hour workout with Kim on stadium court was more like a practice session, especially in the second set. Federer played serve-and-volley and chip-and-charge much more than he would in a tight match.

“I was trying out a few things toward the end, that’s true,” he said. “I could take my foot off a little bit and just try out a few things.”

The No. 2-seeded Federer moved into the third round, where he’ll meet Nicolas Kiefer. Seeded players had first-round byes.

No. 5 Andy Roddick needed only 56 minutes to beat Diego Junqueira 6-1, 6-1. Also advancing were No. 3 Novak Djokovic, the 2007 champion, and No. 13 James Blake. Unseeded American Taylor Dent needed five match points to eliminate No. 19 Nicolas Almagro 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7).

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 22 Marat Safin defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, and his sister, No. 2 Dinara Safina, beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3.

Also reaching the third round in women’s play were two-time Grand Slam winner Amelie Mauresmo, Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Federer’s match was his first since the announcement this week of the annual ATP World Tour awards. He won the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship honor for a record fifth consecutive year and was chosen the favorite player for the sixth year in a row in a poll of fans.

He’s popular with South Florida’s many Latin and South American fans even though Spanish and Portuguese are not among the six languages he speaks.

“This morning I was signing autographs after my practice, and one guy was saying, ’You know, Brazil loves you,”’ Federer said with a smile. “Next guy, ’Venezuela, too.’ And ’Ecuador’ is the third guy, and then another guy, ’Dominican Republic as well.’ So it’s nice. They love tennis, which is good.”

In his 10th year on the tour, Federer conceded he’s less patient with the many demands on his time.

“I feel it just hanging around the courts,” he said. “I just don’t do it as much anymore. You just want to get away from the tennis scene, because maybe after playing 1,000 matches, you get sick and tired of seeing another 100,000 matches you’ve seen already. But still I try to give back to the fans by signing autographs and taking pictures while I’m at the site. Especially after practice, I like to take my time.”

The toll of the tennis grind may help explain the decline in the 27-year-old Federer’s fortunes. He has lost five consecutive matches against Nadal and four in a row against Andy Murray, and for the first time in five years, Federer’s not seeded No. 1 at Key Biscayne.

Marat Safin can relate — he briefly reached the No. 1 ranking in 2000.

“You can’t expect to be on top for 10 years,” Safin said. “New guys are coming. They’re hungry, they’re faster, they’re playing better. It’s something new for them.

“For Roger, he has already been on the tour for nine or 10 years and has seen everything. Guys see the opportunity of beating him, and that’s what happens. He’s getting old, and the young guys want to beat him. Eventually they will crack him down. The older he gets, the more people are going to beat him. That’s the way it is.”

Federer could meet Djokovic in the semifinals and Nadal in the final. He has won 31 consecutive matches against players ranked outside the top 10, suggesting he’s a near-lock to hang around for several more rounds.

That will give him time to work on his postmatch lobs into the stands.

Also on NBCSports.com

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College hoops: Kentucky's next move to be felt by many
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Baseball: Here's best plan for next WBC
NHL: Don’t count out Canucks, Flames in the West

 

Federer, Roddick roll in Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. - Roger Federer’s first shot hit a light pole, and his third sailed over the upper deck out of the stadium.

No, Federer’s slump didn’t reach a new low Friday. He merely misfired a couple of times trying to whack souvenir balls into the stands after winning his opening match at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The two-time Key Biscayne champion beat American Kevin Kim 6-3, 6-2.

“Great start to the tournament,” Federer said.

He hopes to end a drought that has left him without a title in his past 12 Masters tournaments, the ATP Tour’s most prestigious events aside from the Grand Slams. His 4½-year reign atop the rankings ended last August when he was overtaken by nemesis Rafael Nadal, but Federer professes optimism that he has the ability to reclaim the top spot.

“The true understanders of the game know it doesn’t go that quickly,” he said.

His one-hour workout with Kim on stadium court was more like a practice session, especially in the second set. Federer played serve-and-volley and chip-and-charge much more than he would in a tight match.

“I was trying out a few things toward the end, that’s true,” he said. “I could take my foot off a little bit and just try out a few things.”

The No. 2-seeded Federer moved into the third round, where he’ll meet Nicolas Kiefer. Seeded players had first-round byes.

No. 5 Andy Roddick needed only 56 minutes to beat Diego Junqueira 6-1, 6-1. Also advancing were No. 3 Novak Djokovic, the 2007 champion, and No. 13 James Blake. Unseeded American Taylor Dent needed five match points to eliminate No. 19 Nicolas Almagro 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7).

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 22 Marat Safin defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, and his sister, No. 2 Dinara Safina, beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3.

Also reaching the third round in women’s play were two-time Grand Slam winner Amelie Mauresmo, Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Federer’s match was his first since the announcement this week of the annual ATP World Tour awards. He won the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship honor for a record fifth consecutive year and was chosen the favorite player for the sixth year in a row in a poll of fans.

He’s popular with South Florida’s many Latin and South American fans even though Spanish and Portuguese are not among the six languages he speaks.

“This morning I was signing autographs after my practice, and one guy was saying, ’You know, Brazil loves you,”’ Federer said with a smile. “Next guy, ’Venezuela, too.’ And ’Ecuador’ is the third guy, and then another guy, ’Dominican Republic as well.’ So it’s nice. They love tennis, which is good.”

In his 10th year on the tour, Federer conceded he’s less patient with the many demands on his time.

“I feel it just hanging around the courts,” he said. “I just don’t do it as much anymore. You just want to get away from the tennis scene, because maybe after playing 1,000 matches, you get sick and tired of seeing another 100,000 matches you’ve seen already. But still I try to give back to the fans by signing autographs and taking pictures while I’m at the site. Especially after practice, I like to take my time.”

The toll of the tennis grind may help explain the decline in the 27-year-old Federer’s fortunes. He has lost five consecutive matches against Nadal and four in a row against Andy Murray, and for the first time in five years, Federer’s not seeded No. 1 at Key Biscayne.

Marat Safin can relate — he briefly reached the No. 1 ranking in 2000.

“You can’t expect to be on top for 10 years,” Safin said. “New guys are coming. They’re hungry, they’re faster, they’re playing better. It’s something new for them.

“For Roger, he has already been on the tour for nine or 10 years and has seen everything. Guys see the opportunity of beating him, and that’s what happens. He’s getting old, and the young guys want to beat him. Eventually they will crack him down. The older he gets, the more people are going to beat him. That’s the way it is.”

Federer could meet Djokovic in the semifinals and Nadal in the final. He has won 31 consecutive matches against players ranked outside the top 10, suggesting he’s a near-lock to hang around for several more rounds.

That will give him time to work on his postmatch lobs into the stands.

Also on NBCSports.com

College hoops: Is 'Nova best of Big East?  |    Images
College hoops: Kentucky's next move to be felt by many
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NHL: Don’t count out Canucks, Flames in the West

 

Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Federer, Roddick roll in Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. - Roger Federer’s first shot hit a light pole, and his third sailed over the upper deck out of the stadium.

No, Federer’s slump didn’t reach a new low Friday. He merely misfired a couple of times trying to whack souvenir balls into the stands after winning his opening match at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The two-time Key Biscayne champion beat American Kevin Kim 6-3, 6-2.

“Great start to the tournament,” Federer said.

He hopes to end a drought that has left him without a title in his past 12 Masters tournaments, the ATP Tour’s most prestigious events aside from the Grand Slams. His 4½-year reign atop the rankings ended last August when he was overtaken by nemesis Rafael Nadal, but Federer professes optimism that he has the ability to reclaim the top spot.

“The true understanders of the game know it doesn’t go that quickly,” he said.

His one-hour workout with Kim on stadium court was more like a practice session, especially in the second set. Federer played serve-and-volley and chip-and-charge much more than he would in a tight match.

“I was trying out a few things toward the end, that’s true,” he said. “I could take my foot off a little bit and just try out a few things.”

The No. 2-seeded Federer moved into the third round, where he’ll meet Nicolas Kiefer. Seeded players had first-round byes.

No. 5 Andy Roddick needed only 56 minutes to beat Diego Junqueira 6-1, 6-1. Also advancing were No. 3 Novak Djokovic, the 2007 champion, and No. 13 James Blake. Unseeded American Taylor Dent needed five match points to eliminate No. 19 Nicolas Almagro 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7).

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 22 Marat Safin defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, and his sister, No. 2 Dinara Safina, beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3.

Also reaching the third round in women’s play were two-time Grand Slam winner Amelie Mauresmo, Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Federer’s match was his first since the announcement this week of the annual ATP World Tour awards. He won the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship honor for a record fifth consecutive year and was chosen the favorite player for the sixth year in a row in a poll of fans.

He’s popular with South Florida’s many Latin and South American fans even though Spanish and Portuguese are not among the six languages he speaks.

“This morning I was signing autographs after my practice, and one guy was saying, ’You know, Brazil loves you,”’ Federer said with a smile. “Next guy, ’Venezuela, too.’ And ’Ecuador’ is the third guy, and then another guy, ’Dominican Republic as well.’ So it’s nice. They love tennis, which is good.”

In his 10th year on the tour, Federer conceded he’s less patient with the many demands on his time.

“I feel it just hanging around the courts,” he said. “I just don’t do it as much anymore. You just want to get away from the tennis scene, because maybe after playing 1,000 matches, you get sick and tired of seeing another 100,000 matches you’ve seen already. But still I try to give back to the fans by signing autographs and taking pictures while I’m at the site. Especially after practice, I like to take my time.”

The toll of the tennis grind may help explain the decline in the 27-year-old Federer’s fortunes. He has lost five consecutive matches against Nadal and four in a row against Andy Murray, and for the first time in five years, Federer’s not seeded No. 1 at Key Biscayne.

Marat Safin can relate — he briefly reached the No. 1 ranking in 2000.

“You can’t expect to be on top for 10 years,” Safin said. “New guys are coming. They’re hungry, they’re faster, they’re playing better. It’s something new for them.

“For Roger, he has already been on the tour for nine or 10 years and has seen everything. Guys see the opportunity of beating him, and that’s what happens. He’s getting old, and the young guys want to beat him. Eventually they will crack him down. The older he gets, the more people are going to beat him. That’s the way it is.”

Federer could meet Djokovic in the semifinals and Nadal in the final. He has won 31 consecutive matches against players ranked outside the top 10, suggesting he’s a near-lock to hang around for several more rounds.

That will give him time to work on his postmatch lobs into the stands.

Also on NBCSports.com

College hoops: Is 'Nova best of Big East?  |    Images
College hoops: Kentucky's next move to be felt by many
NBA: With 4 first-rounders, Wolves eye NCAA stars
Baseball: Here's best plan for next WBC
NHL: Don’t count out Canucks, Flames in the West

 

Federer, Roddick roll in Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. - Roger Federer’s first shot hit a light pole, and his third sailed over the upper deck out of the stadium.

No, Federer’s slump didn’t reach a new low Friday. He merely misfired a couple of times trying to whack souvenir balls into the stands after winning his opening match at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The two-time Key Biscayne champion beat American Kevin Kim 6-3, 6-2.

“Great start to the tournament,” Federer said.

He hopes to end a drought that has left him without a title in his past 12 Masters tournaments, the ATP Tour’s most prestigious events aside from the Grand Slams. His 4½-year reign atop the rankings ended last August when he was overtaken by nemesis Rafael Nadal, but Federer professes optimism that he has the ability to reclaim the top spot.

“The true understanders of the game know it doesn’t go that quickly,” he said.

His one-hour workout with Kim on stadium court was more like a practice session, especially in the second set. Federer played serve-and-volley and chip-and-charge much more than he would in a tight match.

“I was trying out a few things toward the end, that’s true,” he said. “I could take my foot off a little bit and just try out a few things.”

The No. 2-seeded Federer moved into the third round, where he’ll meet Nicolas Kiefer. Seeded players had first-round byes.

No. 5 Andy Roddick needed only 56 minutes to beat Diego Junqueira 6-1, 6-1. Also advancing were No. 3 Novak Djokovic, the 2007 champion, and No. 13 James Blake. Unseeded American Taylor Dent needed five match points to eliminate No. 19 Nicolas Almagro 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7).

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 22 Marat Safin defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, and his sister, No. 2 Dinara Safina, beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3.

Also reaching the third round in women’s play were two-time Grand Slam winner Amelie Mauresmo, Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Federer’s match was his first since the announcement this week of the annual ATP World Tour awards. He won the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship honor for a record fifth consecutive year and was chosen the favorite player for the sixth year in a row in a poll of fans.

He’s popular with South Florida’s many Latin and South American fans even though Spanish and Portuguese are not among the six languages he speaks.

“This morning I was signing autographs after my practice, and one guy was saying, ’You know, Brazil loves you,”’ Federer said with a smile. “Next guy, ’Venezuela, too.’ And ’Ecuador’ is the third guy, and then another guy, ’Dominican Republic as well.’ So it’s nice. They love tennis, which is good.”

In his 10th year on the tour, Federer conceded he’s less patient with the many demands on his time.

“I feel it just hanging around the courts,” he said. “I just don’t do it as much anymore. You just want to get away from the tennis scene, because maybe after playing 1,000 matches, you get sick and tired of seeing another 100,000 matches you’ve seen already. But still I try to give back to the fans by signing autographs and taking pictures while I’m at the site. Especially after practice, I like to take my time.”

The toll of the tennis grind may help explain the decline in the 27-year-old Federer’s fortunes. He has lost five consecutive matches against Nadal and four in a row against Andy Murray, and for the first time in five years, Federer’s not seeded No. 1 at Key Biscayne.

Marat Safin can relate — he briefly reached the No. 1 ranking in 2000.

“You can’t expect to be on top for 10 years,” Safin said. “New guys are coming. They’re hungry, they’re faster, they’re playing better. It’s something new for them.

“For Roger, he has already been on the tour for nine or 10 years and has seen everything. Guys see the opportunity of beating him, and that’s what happens. He’s getting old, and the young guys want to beat him. Eventually they will crack him down. The older he gets, the more people are going to beat him. That’s the way it is.”

Federer could meet Djokovic in the semifinals and Nadal in the final. He has won 31 consecutive matches against players ranked outside the top 10, suggesting he’s a near-lock to hang around for several more rounds.

That will give him time to work on his postmatch lobs into the stands.

Also on NBCSports.com

College hoops: Is 'Nova best of Big East?  |    Images
College hoops: Kentucky's next move to be felt by many
NBA: With 4 first-rounders, Wolves eye NCAA stars
Baseball: Here's best plan for next WBC
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Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Federer, Roddick roll in Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. - Roger Federer’s first shot hit a light pole, and his third sailed over the upper deck out of the stadium.

No, Federer’s slump didn’t reach a new low Friday. He merely misfired a couple of times trying to whack souvenir balls into the stands after winning his opening match at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The two-time Key Biscayne champion beat American Kevin Kim 6-3, 6-2.

“Great start to the tournament,” Federer said.

He hopes to end a drought that has left him without a title in his past 12 Masters tournaments, the ATP Tour’s most prestigious events aside from the Grand Slams. His 4½-year reign atop the rankings ended last August when he was overtaken by nemesis Rafael Nadal, but Federer professes optimism that he has the ability to reclaim the top spot.

“The true understanders of the game know it doesn’t go that quickly,” he said.

His one-hour workout with Kim on stadium court was more like a practice session, especially in the second set. Federer played serve-and-volley and chip-and-charge much more than he would in a tight match.

“I was trying out a few things toward the end, that’s true,” he said. “I could take my foot off a little bit and just try out a few things.”

The No. 2-seeded Federer moved into the third round, where he’ll meet Nicolas Kiefer. Seeded players had first-round byes.

No. 5 Andy Roddick needed only 56 minutes to beat Diego Junqueira 6-1, 6-1. Also advancing were No. 3 Novak Djokovic, the 2007 champion, and No. 13 James Blake. Unseeded American Taylor Dent needed five match points to eliminate No. 19 Nicolas Almagro 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7).

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 22 Marat Safin defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, and his sister, No. 2 Dinara Safina, beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3.

Also reaching the third round in women’s play were two-time Grand Slam winner Amelie Mauresmo, Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Federer’s match was his first since the announcement this week of the annual ATP World Tour awards. He won the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship honor for a record fifth consecutive year and was chosen the favorite player for the sixth year in a row in a poll of fans.

He’s popular with South Florida’s many Latin and South American fans even though Spanish and Portuguese are not among the six languages he speaks.

“This morning I was signing autographs after my practice, and one guy was saying, ’You know, Brazil loves you,”’ Federer said with a smile. “Next guy, ’Venezuela, too.’ And ’Ecuador’ is the third guy, and then another guy, ’Dominican Republic as well.’ So it’s nice. They love tennis, which is good.”

In his 10th year on the tour, Federer conceded he’s less patient with the many demands on his time.

“I feel it just hanging around the courts,” he said. “I just don’t do it as much anymore. You just want to get away from the tennis scene, because maybe after playing 1,000 matches, you get sick and tired of seeing another 100,000 matches you’ve seen already. But still I try to give back to the fans by signing autographs and taking pictures while I’m at the site. Especially after practice, I like to take my time.”

The toll of the tennis grind may help explain the decline in the 27-year-old Federer’s fortunes. He has lost five consecutive matches against Nadal and four in a row against Andy Murray, and for the first time in five years, Federer’s not seeded No. 1 at Key Biscayne.

Marat Safin can relate — he briefly reached the No. 1 ranking in 2000.

“You can’t expect to be on top for 10 years,” Safin said. “New guys are coming. They’re hungry, they’re faster, they’re playing better. It’s something new for them.

“For Roger, he has already been on the tour for nine or 10 years and has seen everything. Guys see the opportunity of beating him, and that’s what happens. He’s getting old, and the young guys want to beat him. Eventually they will crack him down. The older he gets, the more people are going to beat him. That’s the way it is.”

Federer could meet Djokovic in the semifinals and Nadal in the final. He has won 31 consecutive matches against players ranked outside the top 10, suggesting he’s a near-lock to hang around for several more rounds.

That will give him time to work on his postmatch lobs into the stands.

Also on NBCSports.com

College hoops: Is 'Nova best of Big East?  |    Images
College hoops: Kentucky's next move to be felt by many
NBA: With 4 first-rounders, Wolves eye NCAA stars
Baseball: Here's best plan for next WBC
NHL: Don’t count out Canucks, Flames in the West

 

Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Federer, Roddick roll in Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. - Roger Federer’s first shot hit a light pole, and his third sailed over the upper deck out of the stadium.

No, Federer’s slump didn’t reach a new low Friday. He merely misfired a couple of times trying to whack souvenir balls into the stands after winning his opening match at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The two-time Key Biscayne champion beat American Kevin Kim 6-3, 6-2.

“Great start to the tournament,” Federer said.

He hopes to end a drought that has left him without a title in his past 12 Masters tournaments, the ATP Tour’s most prestigious events aside from the Grand Slams. His 4½-year reign atop the rankings ended last August when he was overtaken by nemesis Rafael Nadal, but Federer professes optimism that he has the ability to reclaim the top spot.

“The true understanders of the game know it doesn’t go that quickly,” he said.

His one-hour workout with Kim on stadium court was more like a practice session, especially in the second set. Federer played serve-and-volley and chip-and-charge much more than he would in a tight match.

“I was trying out a few things toward the end, that’s true,” he said. “I could take my foot off a little bit and just try out a few things.”

The No. 2-seeded Federer moved into the third round, where he’ll meet Nicolas Kiefer. Seeded players had first-round byes.

No. 5 Andy Roddick needed only 56 minutes to beat Diego Junqueira 6-1, 6-1. Also advancing were No. 3 Novak Djokovic, the 2007 champion, and No. 13 James Blake. Unseeded American Taylor Dent needed five match points to eliminate No. 19 Nicolas Almagro 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7).

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 22 Marat Safin defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1, and his sister, No. 2 Dinara Safina, beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3.

Also reaching the third round in women’s play were two-time Grand Slam winner Amelie Mauresmo, Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova.

Federer’s match was his first since the announcement this week of the annual ATP World Tour awards. He won the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship honor for a record fifth consecutive year and was chosen the favorite player for the sixth year in a row in a poll of fans.

He’s popular with South Florida’s many Latin and South American fans even though Spanish and Portuguese are not among the six languages he speaks.

“This morning I was signing autographs after my practice, and one guy was saying, ’You know, Brazil loves you,”’ Federer said with a smile. “Next guy, ’Venezuela, too.’ And ’Ecuador’ is the third guy, and then another guy, ’Dominican Republic as well.’ So it’s nice. They love tennis, which is good.”

In his 10th year on the tour, Federer conceded he’s less patient with the many demands on his time.

“I feel it just hanging around the courts,” he said. “I just don’t do it as much anymore. You just want to get away from the tennis scene, because maybe after playing 1,000 matches, you get sick and tired of seeing another 100,000 matches you’ve seen already. But still I try to give back to the fans by signing autographs and taking pictures while I’m at the site. Especially after practice, I like to take my time.”

The toll of the tennis grind may help explain the decline in the 27-year-old Federer’s fortunes. He has lost five consecutive matches against Nadal and four in a row against Andy Murray, and for the first time in five years, Federer’s not seeded No. 1 at Key Biscayne.

Marat Safin can relate — he briefly reached the No. 1 ranking in 2000.

“You can’t expect to be on top for 10 years,” Safin said. “New guys are coming. They’re hungry, they’re faster, they’re playing better. It’s something new for them.

“For Roger, he has already been on the tour for nine or 10 years and has seen everything. Guys see the opportunity of beating him, and that’s what happens. He’s getting old, and the young guys want to beat him. Eventually they will crack him down. The older he gets, the more people are going to beat him. That’s the way it is.”

Federer could meet Djokovic in the semifinals and Nadal in the final. He has won 31 consecutive matches against players ranked outside the top 10, suggesting he’s a near-lock to hang around for several more rounds.

That will give him time to work on his postmatch lobs into the stands.

Also on NBCSports.com

College hoops: Is 'Nova best of Big East?  |    Images
College hoops: Kentucky's next move to be felt by many
NBA: With 4 first-rounders, Wolves eye NCAA stars
Baseball: Here's best plan for next WBC
NHL: Don’t count out Canucks, Flames in the West

 

Magpies linked with Suazo

Newcastle and Atletico Madrid have been linked with a move for striker David Suazo.

The Inter Milan forward, currently on loan to Benfica, is reported to have drawn the attention of both high-profile clubs after an impressive season in Portugal.

Out of action after picking up a knock against Sporting Lisbon, Suazo has admitted he could leave Benfica when his current loan spell comes to an end.

Although his priority is getting back to full match fitness, the 29-year-old has not ruled out a move to either England or Spain.

Injured

"I am injured at the moment on-loan here at Benfica," he told skysports.com .

"I have very much enjoyed my time in Portugal but I have a lot of options open to me.

"There are clubs in the Premier League and La Liga expressing an interest in me but I will wait and see what happens at the end of the season.

"My main concern at the moment is to get fit again."

Galliani - Ancelotti is staying

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani says coach Carlo Ancelotti will almost certainly stay at the club.

The Milan coach has been linked with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid for some time in the Italian press.

Gallianai, though, says he is not worried by such speculation, insisting his coach is staying put.

Reported to be investing heavily in the summer, Galliani also stated that the club would wait until they knew which European tournament they were playing in next term before splashing the cash.

Future

"It's 99.99 percent certain he will stay," said Galliani of Ancelotti's future.

"All transfer dealings will begin the day when we know exactly what competition we will be in.

"I think and I hope it will be the Champions League. As for Ancelotti and Real - I'm not worried.

"He has a contract (until the end of next season) and then (Real president) Florentino Perez keeps telling me he's a friend, he would never do this without telling me.

"All this attention shows that he is a coach in demand and we were clever in signing him."

Barca near Keirrison deal

Barcelona have reached an initial agreement with Palmeiras for striker Keirrison.

The Spanish giants are set to make a concrete bid for the 20-year-old Brazilian in the coming weeks after agreeing initial terms.

Barcelona director of football Txiki Begiristain met with the player's agency Traffic Sports in South America to discuss clauses and conditions related to the highly-rated striker's progress.

Keirrison, who has enjoyed a successful season with the Brazilian side, looks set for a summer move to Camp Nou with contract talks nearing a conclusion.

Dream

Delighted with the prospect of a move to La Liga, the young striker revealed his childhood dream of playing for Barcelona.

"I would really like to play alongside Lionel Messi," Keirrison told Sport . "He is the best player in the world.

"Since I was very young I have wanted to play in a country and with a great club and, while I have nothing against any others, I have always identified with Barcelona.

"I have seen a lot of games when Romario and Ronaldo were there and that made me dream that one day I would play in a great club like Barcelona."

Liverpool, Real Madrid and Valencia have been keeping tabs on the youngster's progress, with Los Che having an earlier bid rejected.

Serena voted player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Dementieva wins opening match at Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva is into the third round at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The No. 4-seeded Dementieva took advantage of her opponent's weak serve Friday to beat Anastasia Pivovarova 6-0, 3-6, 6-3. Dementieva broke serve eight times and was helped by Pivovarova's 11 double faults.

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 2 Dinara Safina beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3, and her brother, No. 22 Marat Safin, defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1.

Seeded players had first-round byes. No. 2 Roger Federer and No. 5 Andy Roddick were among those with matches scheduled later Friday.

Serena voted WTA player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Dementieva wins opening match at Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva took advantage of her opponent's shaky serves Friday to reach the third round at the Sony Ericsson Open.

The No. 4-seeded Dementieva beat Anastasia Pivovarova 6-0, 3-6, 6-3. Dementieva broke serve eight times and was helped by Pivovarova's 11 double faults.

The Safin family swept its second-round matches. No. 2 Dinara Safina beat Mathilde Johansson 6-1, 6-3, and her brother, No. 22 Marat Safin, defeated Oscar Hernandez 6-4, 2-6, 6-1.

No. 3 Novak Djokovic, who won the tournament in 2007, beat Frank Dancevic 6-3, 6-2. No. 13 James Blake broke serve in the final game of each set to defeat Julien Benneteau 6-4, 6-4.

On the women's side, former U.S. Open champion Svetlana Kuzentsova rallied to beat Tamira Paszek 2-6, 7-5, 6-1.

Seeded players had first-round byes. No. 2 Roger Federer and No. 5 Andy Roddick were among those with matches scheduled later Friday.

Fitter Roddick bids for Key Biscayne title

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -The conversation that inspired the Andy Roddick weight-loss program occurred shortly after he hired Larry Stefanki as coach in December.

"I told Larry, `This is your show. I'm here to follow,''' Roddick recalled. "He promptly said, `OK, lose 15 pounds,' and I regretted saying what I said.''

Now Roddick's slimmer and fitter. But better? That question might be answered at the Sony Ericsson Open, where the No. 5-seeded Roddick plays his opening match Friday night against Diego Junqueira of Argentina.

He's off to the best start of his career with a 23-4 record, and he matched his best Australian Open showing when he reached the semifinals before losing to Roger Federer.

"I've been playing well and winning the matches I'm supposed to win,'' Roddick said Thursday. "I think there is some room for improvement. I'm excited about the rest of the way.''

Seeded players had first-round byes and begin matches Friday, with Federer, Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic among those in action. U.S. men went 4-2 Thursday, with John Isner, Sam Querrey, Amer Delic and Bobby Reynolds advancing. American women went 1-1, with Jill Craybas losing and Alexa Glatch winning.

Roddick hired Stefanki after slipping to No. 8, his lowest year-end ranking since 2002. With a new workout regimen he met the coach's goal of shedding 15 pounds, which has allowed him to chase down shots that might have been beyond reach in the past.

Now Roddick will try to chase down top-ranked Rafael Nadal, Federer and Djokovic in the rankings.

"Larry recognized there is a change in the game,'' Roddick said. "It seems like everything is slowing down a little bit as far as surface and balls, and therefore you see a lot more guys dependent upon their running ability and their legs.

"So we're just trying to keep up. It has worked so far, but we're talking about 2 1/2 months. It needs to be proven for a little bit longer than that to consider it an ultimate success.''

The third-ranked Djokovic noticed the difference last week when Roddick beat him 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells.

"He's playing better. That's a fact,'' Djokovic said. "He's stepping up more in the court, and you just feel the improvement.''

Nadal beat Roddick the next day in the semifinals, winning two close sets.

"It seems like he has more motivation right now than last few years,'' Nadal said. "He's playing well, no?''

The 26-year-old Roddick has gone 5 1/2 years since winning his lone Grand Slam title at the 2003 U.S. Open. Critics say he has failed to make the most of a serve and forehand that rank with the most formidable in tennis. Defenders say he has done well to win one major title despite an inconsistent backhand and poor net game.

Key Biscayne offers one last chance to make a splash before the tour switches to clay, Roddick's worst surface. He has enjoyed several memorable victories on the island, including an upset at age 18 over Pete Sampras in 2001, and a win over Federer last year to end a streak of 11 consecutive losses to his nemesis.

Roddick and Federer could meet next week in the quarterfinals, with Nadal in the other half of the draw.

Roddick won the tournament in 2004, when he lived nearby in Boca Raton. That's the only time he has reached the final in nine tries, but he bristles at the suggestion he has underachieved in the event.

"I won it; it's tough to say I haven't played well,'' he said. "That's kind of a microcosm of my career, I guess. It's just a matter of how you want to grade it.''

Serena voted WTA player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Fitter Roddick bids for Key Biscayne title

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -The conversation that inspired the Andy Roddick weight-loss program occurred shortly after he hired Larry Stefanki as coach in December.

"I told Larry, `This is your show. I'm here to follow,''' Roddick recalled. "He promptly said, `OK, lose 15 pounds,' and I regretted saying what I said.''

Now Roddick's slimmer and fitter. But better? That question might be answered at the Sony Ericsson Open, where the No. 5-seeded Roddick plays his opening match Friday night against Diego Junqueira of Argentina.

He's off to the best start of his career with a 23-4 record, and he matched his best Australian Open showing when he reached the semifinals before losing to Roger Federer.

"I've been playing well and winning the matches I'm supposed to win,'' Roddick said Thursday. "I think there is some room for improvement. I'm excited about the rest of the way.''

Seeded players had first-round byes and begin matches Friday, with Federer, Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic among those in action. U.S. men went 4-2 Thursday, with John Isner, Sam Querrey, Amer Delic and Bobby Reynolds advancing. American women went 1-1, with Jill Craybas losing and Alexa Glatch winning.

Roddick hired Stefanki after slipping to No. 8, his lowest year-end ranking since 2002. With a new workout regimen he met the coach's goal of shedding 15 pounds, which has allowed him to chase down shots that might have been beyond reach in the past.

Now Roddick will try to chase down top-ranked Rafael Nadal, Federer and Djokovic in the rankings.

"Larry recognized there is a change in the game,'' Roddick said. "It seems like everything is slowing down a little bit as far as surface and balls, and therefore you see a lot more guys dependent upon their running ability and their legs.

"So we're just trying to keep up. It has worked so far, but we're talking about 2 1/2 months. It needs to be proven for a little bit longer than that to consider it an ultimate success.''

The third-ranked Djokovic noticed the difference last week when Roddick beat him 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells.

"He's playing better. That's a fact,'' Djokovic said. "He's stepping up more in the court, and you just feel the improvement.''

Nadal beat Roddick the next day in the semifinals, winning two close sets.

"It seems like he has more motivation right now than last few years,'' Nadal said. "He's playing well, no?''

The 26-year-old Roddick has gone 5 1/2 years since winning his lone Grand Slam title at the 2003 U.S. Open. Critics say he has failed to make the most of a serve and forehand that rank with the most formidable in tennis. Defenders say he has done well to win one major title despite an inconsistent backhand and poor net game.

Key Biscayne offers one last chance to make a splash before the tour switches to clay, Roddick's worst surface. He has enjoyed several memorable victories on the island, including an upset at age 18 over Pete Sampras in 2001, and a win over Federer last year to end a streak of 11 consecutive losses to his nemesis.

Roddick and Federer could meet next week in the quarterfinals, with Nadal in the other half of the draw.

Roddick won the tournament in 2004, when he lived nearby in Boca Raton. That's the only time he has reached the final in nine tries, but he bristles at the suggestion he has underachieved in the event.

"I won it; it's tough to say I haven't played well,'' he said. "That's kind of a microcosm of my career, I guess. It's just a matter of how you want to grade it.''

Serena voted WTA player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Serena voted WTA player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Fitter Roddick bids for Key Biscayne title

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -The conversation that inspired the Andy Roddick weight-loss program occurred shortly after he hired Larry Stefanki as coach in December.

"I told Larry, `This is your show. I'm here to follow,''' Roddick recalled. "He promptly said, `OK, lose 15 pounds,' and I regretted saying what I said.''

Now Roddick's slimmer and fitter. But better? That question might be answered at the Sony Ericsson Open, where the No. 5-seeded Roddick plays his opening match Friday night against Diego Junqueira of Argentina.

He's off to the best start of his career with a 23-4 record, and he matched his best Australian Open showing when he reached the semifinals before losing to Roger Federer.

"I've been playing well and winning the matches I'm supposed to win,'' Roddick said Thursday. "I think there is some room for improvement. I'm excited about the rest of the way.''

Seeded players had first-round byes and begin matches Friday, with Federer, Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic among those in action. U.S. men went 4-2 Thursday, with John Isner, Sam Querrey, Amer Delic and Bobby Reynolds advancing. American women went 1-1, with Jill Craybas losing and Alexa Glatch winning.

Roddick hired Stefanki after slipping to No. 8, his lowest year-end ranking since 2002. With a new workout regimen he met the coach's goal of shedding 15 pounds, which has allowed him to chase down shots that might have been beyond reach in the past.

Now Roddick will try to chase down top-ranked Rafael Nadal, Federer and Djokovic in the rankings.

"Larry recognized there is a change in the game,'' Roddick said. "It seems like everything is slowing down a little bit as far as surface and balls, and therefore you see a lot more guys dependent upon their running ability and their legs.

"So we're just trying to keep up. It has worked so far, but we're talking about 2 1/2 months. It needs to be proven for a little bit longer than that to consider it an ultimate success.''

The third-ranked Djokovic noticed the difference last week when Roddick beat him 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells.

"He's playing better. That's a fact,'' Djokovic said. "He's stepping up more in the court, and you just feel the improvement.''

Nadal beat Roddick the next day in the semifinals, winning two close sets.

"It seems like he has more motivation right now than last few years,'' Nadal said. "He's playing well, no?''

The 26-year-old Roddick has gone 5 1/2 years since winning his lone Grand Slam title at the 2003 U.S. Open. Critics say he has failed to make the most of a serve and forehand that rank with the most formidable in tennis. Defenders say he has done well to win one major title despite an inconsistent backhand and poor net game.

Key Biscayne offers one last chance to make a splash before the tour switches to clay, Roddick's worst surface. He has enjoyed several memorable victories on the island, including an upset at age 18 over Pete Sampras in 2001, and a win over Federer last year to end a streak of 11 consecutive losses to his nemesis.

Roddick and Federer could meet next week in the quarterfinals, with Nadal in the other half of the draw.

Roddick won the tournament in 2004, when he lived nearby in Boca Raton. That's the only time he has reached the final in nine tries, but he bristles at the suggestion he has underachieved in the event.

"I won it; it's tough to say I haven't played well,'' he said. "That's kind of a microcosm of my career, I guess. It's just a matter of how you want to grade it.''

Fitter Roddick bids for Key Biscayne title

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -The conversation that inspired the Andy Roddick weight-loss program occurred shortly after he hired Larry Stefanki as coach in December.

"I told Larry, `This is your show. I'm here to follow,''' Roddick recalled. "He promptly said, `OK, lose 15 pounds,' and I regretted saying what I said.''

Now Roddick's slimmer and fitter. But better? That question might be answered at the Sony Ericsson Open, where the No. 5-seeded Roddick plays his opening match Friday night against Diego Junqueira of Argentina.

He's off to the best start of his career with a 23-4 record, and he matched his best Australian Open showing when he reached the semifinals before losing to Roger Federer.

"I've been playing well and winning the matches I'm supposed to win,'' Roddick said Thursday. "I think there is some room for improvement. I'm excited about the rest of the way.''

Seeded players had first-round byes and begin matches Friday, with Federer, Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic among those in action. U.S. men went 4-2 Thursday, with John Isner, Sam Querrey, Amer Delic and Bobby Reynolds advancing. American women went 1-1, with Jill Craybas losing and Alexa Glatch winning.

Roddick hired Stefanki after slipping to No. 8, his lowest year-end ranking since 2002. With a new workout regimen he met the coach's goal of shedding 15 pounds, which has allowed him to chase down shots that might have been beyond reach in the past.

Now Roddick will try to chase down top-ranked Rafael Nadal, Federer and Djokovic in the rankings.

"Larry recognized there is a change in the game,'' Roddick said. "It seems like everything is slowing down a little bit as far as surface and balls, and therefore you see a lot more guys dependent upon their running ability and their legs.

"So we're just trying to keep up. It has worked so far, but we're talking about 2 1/2 months. It needs to be proven for a little bit longer than that to consider it an ultimate success.''

The third-ranked Djokovic noticed the difference last week when Roddick beat him 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells.

"He's playing better. That's a fact,'' Djokovic said. "He's stepping up more in the court, and you just feel the improvement.''

Nadal beat Roddick the next day in the semifinals, winning two close sets.

"It seems like he has more motivation right now than last few years,'' Nadal said. "He's playing well, no?''

The 26-year-old Roddick has gone 5 1/2 years since winning his lone Grand Slam title at the 2003 U.S. Open. Critics say he has failed to make the most of a serve and forehand that rank with the most formidable in tennis. Defenders say he has done well to win one major title despite an inconsistent backhand and poor net game.

Key Biscayne offers one last chance to make a splash before the tour switches to clay, Roddick's worst surface. He has enjoyed several memorable victories on the island, including an upset at age 18 over Pete Sampras in 2001, and a win over Federer last year to end a streak of 11 consecutive losses to his nemesis.

Roddick and Federer could meet next week in the quarterfinals, with Nadal in the other half of the draw.

Roddick won the tournament in 2004, when he lived nearby in Boca Raton. That's the only time he has reached the final in nine tries, but he bristles at the suggestion he has underachieved in the event.

"I won it; it's tough to say I haven't played well,'' he said. "That's kind of a microcosm of my career, I guess. It's just a matter of how you want to grade it.''

Serena voted WTA player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Fitter Roddick bids for Key Biscayne title

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -The conversation that inspired the Andy Roddick weight-loss program occurred shortly after he hired Larry Stefanki as coach in December.

"I told Larry, `This is your show. I'm here to follow,''' Roddick recalled. "He promptly said, `OK, lose 15 pounds,' and I regretted saying what I said.''

Now Roddick's slimmer and fitter. But better? That question might be answered at the Sony Ericsson Open, where the No. 5-seeded Roddick plays his opening match Friday night against Diego Junqueira of Argentina.

He's off to the best start of his career with a 23-4 record, and he matched his best Australian Open showing when he reached the semifinals before losing to Roger Federer.

"I've been playing well and winning the matches I'm supposed to win,'' Roddick said Thursday. "I think there is some room for improvement. I'm excited about the rest of the way.''

Seeded players had first-round byes and begin matches Friday, with Federer, Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic among those in action. U.S. men went 4-2 Thursday, with John Isner, Sam Querrey, Amer Delic and Bobby Reynolds advancing. American women went 1-1, with Jill Craybas losing and Alexa Glatch winning.

Roddick hired Stefanki after slipping to No. 8, his lowest year-end ranking since 2002. With a new workout regimen he met the coach's goal of shedding 15 pounds, which has allowed him to chase down shots that might have been beyond reach in the past.

Now Roddick will try to chase down top-ranked Rafael Nadal, Federer and Djokovic in the rankings.

"Larry recognized there is a change in the game,'' Roddick said. "It seems like everything is slowing down a little bit as far as surface and balls, and therefore you see a lot more guys dependent upon their running ability and their legs.

"So we're just trying to keep up. It has worked so far, but we're talking about 2 1/2 months. It needs to be proven for a little bit longer than that to consider it an ultimate success.''

The third-ranked Djokovic noticed the difference last week when Roddick beat him 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells.

"He's playing better. That's a fact,'' Djokovic said. "He's stepping up more in the court, and you just feel the improvement.''

Nadal beat Roddick the next day in the semifinals, winning two close sets.

"It seems like he has more motivation right now than last few years,'' Nadal said. "He's playing well, no?''

The 26-year-old Roddick has gone 5 1/2 years since winning his lone Grand Slam title at the 2003 U.S. Open. Critics say he has failed to make the most of a serve and forehand that rank with the most formidable in tennis. Defenders say he has done well to win one major title despite an inconsistent backhand and poor net game.

Key Biscayne offers one last chance to make a splash before the tour switches to clay, Roddick's worst surface. He has enjoyed several memorable victories on the island, including an upset at age 18 over Pete Sampras in 2001, and a win over Federer last year to end a streak of 11 consecutive losses to his nemesis.

Roddick and Federer could meet next week in the quarterfinals, with Nadal in the other half of the draw.

Roddick won the tournament in 2004, when he lived nearby in Boca Raton. That's the only time he has reached the final in nine tries, but he bristles at the suggestion he has underachieved in the event.

"I won it; it's tough to say I haven't played well,'' he said. "That's kind of a microcosm of my career, I guess. It's just a matter of how you want to grade it.''

Serena voted WTA player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Rafael 'would consider' exit

Rafael van der Vaart has hinted that he could leave Real Madrid amid reports linking him with a move to Chelsea.

The Holland international has struggled to establish himself at Real since his arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu from Hamburg last summer.

Speculation suggested Van der Vaart could return to Hamburg, but the playmaker has since rejected the rumours.

However, recent reports have linked him with a switch to Chelsea, where Dutch coach Guus Hiddink is currently in temporary charge.

Van der Vaart said in The Sun : "It's flattering when someone like Guus Hiddink is interested as he is one of the best.

"If my World Cup selection is threatened I must think about a transfer."

Ramos undecided on Guti

Juande Ramos has rejected claims that he has decided not to play Guti again this season and explained that he simply left him out at the weekend because he felt other players would do a better job.

The Real Madrid boss is adamant that he does not have a problem with the veteran midfielder after reports suggested the pair had a bust-up in training last week.

Despite leaving Guti out on several occasions and using him as a substitute on many others, Ramos stated that he would happily choose him when the time is right.

Best team

"Guti was not called up because I decided not to do that. For that game, I felt other players would be better. My job is to choose the best team," he told Onda Madrid .

"Each player has a different character, but they must all be treated equally. Players are left out and they are included.

"I have not finished with anyone."

Reflecting on the race for the title, Ramos refuted allegations that Madrid are defensive after their run of 13 games without defeat and claimed that had they stumbled, the championship would be decided.

"Barca are recording some results that are difficult to match. We have to raise our game because there is a team above us and all we can do is keep playing the way we have been," he continued.

"If we had flagged at all, then the league title race would have been over a long time ago. But if we can do what we have been doing then Barcelona will find it difficult.

"Barcelona are playing at an unattainable level for many and that is the problem, the comparisons with them."

Not defensive

"For the situation the team is in, our performances have been excellent. We are the highest scoring Madrid team after that of John Toshack's. They say we are defensive just for something to say.

"In our last 13 matches we have won 12 and drawn one. What more can we do?"

Ramos was then asked about the success of Lassana Diarra and revealed that he has been a fan of the former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder for a long time. "I asked Tottenham to sign him," he added.

Zlatan agent quashes quit talk

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's agent has strenuously denied that his client is keen to leave Inter Milan.

The Sweden international sparked rumours of an imminent exit from the Serie A champions at the weekend when he refused to commit his future to the club.

Inter president Massimo Moratti has also spoken of how the Italian giants could cope without the services of the languid frontman.

However, Ibrahimovic's representative insists reports of a proposed switch to Barcelona are wide of the mark.

"People are talking about convincing Zlatan to stay but no-one has said he is leaving," Mino Raiola told Radio Radio .

"Zlatan has a great relationship with Moratti. There's no reason for them to have a meeting.

Lies

"Moratti was right when he said that we've given bait to newspapers and the media to develop a story which for now doesn't exist.

"If I or Zlatan or (Inter coach Jose) Mourinho don't say anything Italy stops talking about football."

Raiola also dismissed suggestions that Ibrahimovic has demanded more money to remain at Giuseppe Meazza.

"Zlatan has never asked for reinforcements of more money and anyone who says otherwise is a liar," he added.

While Ibrahimovic looks set to remain at Inter for now, Brazilian forward Maxwell appears to be heading for the exit.

Relationship

The South American star has fallen out of favour of late and Raiola admits it may be time for a new challenge for another of his clients.

"With Mourinho either you're Zlatan and he takes you to his home or if you're not Zlatan you're dead and that's not right from a coach's point of view," he said.

"The relationship between Maxwell and Mourinho is over."

On reports that Maxwell could be heading to Inter's city rivals AC Milan, Raiola said: "That's not a decision for Inter to take but the player.

"We'll terminate his contract, we'll pay what has to be paid but we won't set one price for Milan and another for other clubs.

"All the big teams know how good this player is."

Serena voted WTA player of the year

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Serena Williams has been voted the WTA Tour player of the year for the second time.

Williams also received the award for 2002. She won the U.S. Open in September and ended last year ranked No. 1.

Dinara Safina was selected most improved player for 2008, and Zheng Jie was chosen comeback player of the year. Top-ranked Cara Black and Liezel Huber were chosen doubles team of the year for the second time.

Caroline Wozniacki was selected newcomer of the year. Ana Ivanovic was chosen humanitarian of the year for her work and contributions to UNICEF, and Elena Dementieva was honored with the Karen Krantzcke sportsmanship award.

Williams was the only winner not to attend a ceremony Thursday at the Sony Ericsson Open to honor the award winners. She released a statement through the WTA Tour.

"Winning the player of the year award for the second time in my career is a great personal achievement,'' Williams said. "I feel great about my game and hope to win many more player of the year titles in the years to come.''

Fitter Roddick bids for Key Biscayne title

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -The conversation that inspired the Andy Roddick weight-loss program occurred shortly after he hired Larry Stefanki as coach in December.

"I told Larry, `This is your show. I'm here to follow,''' Roddick recalled. "He promptly said, `OK, lose 15 pounds,' and I regretted saying what I said.''

Now Roddick's slimmer and fitter. But better? That question might be answered at the Sony Ericsson Open, where the No. 5-seeded Roddick plays his opening match Friday night against Diego Junqueira of Argentina.

He's off to the best start of his career with a 23-4 record, and he matched his best Australian Open showing when he reached the semifinals before losing to Roger Federer.

"I've been playing well and winning the matches I'm supposed to win,'' Roddick said Thursday. "I think there is some room for improvement. I'm excited about the rest of the way.''

Seeded players had first-round byes and begin matches Friday, with Federer, Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic among those in action. U.S. men went 4-2 Thursday, with John Isner, Sam Querrey, Amer Delic and Bobby Reynolds advancing. Among those eliminated was Jill Craybas, the only American woman to play.

Roddick hired Stefanki after slipping to No. 8, his lowest year-end ranking since 2002. With a new workout regimen he met the coach's goal of shedding 15 pounds, which has allowed him to chase down shots that might have been beyond reach in the past.

Now Roddick will try to chase down top-ranked Rafael Nadal, Federer and Djokovic in the rankings.

"Larry recognized there is a change in the game,'' Roddick said. "It seems like everything is slowing down a little bit as far as surface and balls, and therefore you see a lot more guys dependent upon their running ability and their legs.

"So we're just trying to keep up. It has worked so far, but we're talking about 2 1/2 months. It needs to be proven for a little bit longer than that to consider it an ultimate success.''

The third-ranked Djokovic noticed the difference last week when Roddick beat him 6-2, 6-3 in the quarterfinals at Indian Wells.

"He's playing better. That's a fact,'' Djokovic said. "He's stepping up more in the court, and you just feel the improvement.''

Nadal beat Roddick the next day in the semifinals, winning two close sets.

"It seems like he has more motivation right now than last few years,'' Nadal said. "He's playing well, no?''

The 26-year-old Roddick has gone 5 1/2 years since winning his lone Grand Slam title at the 2003 U.S. Open. Critics say he has failed to make the most of a serve and forehand that rank with the most formidable in tennis. Defenders say he has done well to win one major title despite an inconsistent backhand and poor net game.

Key Biscayne offers one last chance to make a splash before the tour switches to clay, Roddick's worst surface. He has enjoyed several memorable victories on the island, including an upset at age 18 over Pete Sampras in 2001, and a win over Federer last year to end a streak of 11 consecutive losses to his nemesis.

Roddick and Federer could meet next week in the quarterfinals, with Nadal in the other half of the draw.

Roddick won the tournament in 2004, when he lived nearby in Boca Raton. That's the only time he has reached the final in nine tries, but he bristles at the suggestion he has underachieved in the event.

"I won it; it's tough to say I haven't played well,'' he said. "That's kind of a microcosm of my career, I guess. It's just a matter of how you want to grade it.''

Dolphins' Pennington switches sports, tries tennis

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington picked up a tennis racket Wednesday for the first time since college, and the rust showed.

It wasn't really a fair matchup - he hit with top-10 women's player Nadia Petrova of Russia on the practice courts at the Sony Ericsson Open.

"I'm just going to try to get one over the net,'' Pennington said as he took the court.

He was sweating 10 minutes later when the session to promote the tournament ended. He hopped over the net and kissed Petrova on the cheek.

She conceded she had never heard of Pennington, but she was familiar with the Dolphins. She took it easy on him, hitting the ball at half speed and not exploiting his especially weak backhand.

"I'm very impressed,'' she said. "He kept the ball going.''

Pennington said he hadn't hit a tennis ball in 10 years and never played seriously, but his forehand showed promise.

"It's part of playing quarterback - you act like you know what you're doing, but inside you have no idea,'' he said.

With a grunt worthy of Serena Williams, he whacked one shot into the corner for a winner as Petrova laughed.

"The grunt helped me,'' Pennington said. "I laced one. I may incorporate that in my football game - a grunt every time I throw.''

Clijsters returns from retirement

BREE, Belgium (AP) -Kim Clijsters is returning to the tennis circuit after two years in retirement, saying she has regained the competitive hunger that took her to the No. 1 ranking.

"I still have that craving,'' the 25-year-old Belgian said Thursday. "I look forward to the challenge.''

Clijsters, who retired in May 2007 to get married and start a family, announced her comeback at the tennis facility in Bree, Belgium, where she has been practicing recently.

She said she has already asked for wild cards for WTA hard-court tournaments in Cincinnati and Toronto in August and the U.S. Open.

"I want to be back at my peak as soon as possible, but I know that is not logical to ask that,'' Clijsters said. "I will have to take it match by match.''

The U.S. Tennis Association is setting aside a spot in the main draw for Clijsters at the U.S. Open, which starts Aug. 31.

"We have been in contact with Kim regarding her comeback and have committed a 2009 U.S. Open wild card to her,'' tournament director Jim Curley said. "As a past U.S. Open champion and former world No. 1, Kim has been a great ambassador for our sport. We are excited about Kim's return to tennis and look forward to welcoming her to New York this summer.''

Clijsters won the 2005 U.S. Open for her one Grand Slam title. She won 34 career titles overall and was runner-up in four Grand Slam finals.

Rising to the top at the same time as another Belgian who retired early, Justine Henin, Clijsters held the No. 1 singles ranking for 19 weeks.

"I am not coming back to lose in the first rounds,'' she said. "Otherwise I might as well go on holiday.''

Clijsters returns at a time when the WTA tour is wide open and without a single player dominating the rankings.

"I am amazed how many players I don't even know,'' she said. "There are even many names I do not know how to pronounce.''

Clijsters, who is married to American basketball player Brian Lynch and gave birth to her daughter Jada last year, is convinced she has the maturity now to juggle marriage, motherhood and top tennis.

"Now I have the right balance and I feel good,'' she said.

Clijsters refused to commit herself beyond the U.S. Open, preferring to make an assessment at that stage.

"One year, two or three, it is far too early to start answering those questions,'' she said.

Flashing her disarming smile and with her blonde curls tied in a ponytail, Clijsters exuded the easygoing charm which made her a fan favorite around the world.

Her career was marred by a series of injuries, including to her hip and back.

"I know a lot, lot more about my body,'' Clijsters said, adding that she has an exercise regimen designed to prevent injuries.

Clijsters was already set to join Steffi Graf, Andre Agassi and Tim Henman for a series of exhibition matches at Wimbledon on May 17 to test conditions under the new retractable roof on Centre Court.

She said it was while preparing for the Wimbledon exhibition that the competitive edge came back.

Soon, she was spotted at the training center putting in long hours. When she was seen at the basketball court to support her husband, she had that lean streak in her face again.

"I have never trained harder,'' she said.

Clijsters also is scheduled to play an exhibition June 14 against Michaella Krajicek in the Netherlands, along with two matches for the St. Louis Aces of World Team Tennis in July before making the big jump back to the WTA Tour.

Dolphins' Pennington switches sports, tries tennis

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington picked up a tennis racket Wednesday for the first time since college, and the rust showed.

It wasn't really a fair matchup - he hit with top-10 women's player Nadia Petrova of Russia on the practice courts at the Sony Ericsson Open.

"I'm just going to try to get one over the net,'' Pennington said as he took the court.

He was sweating 10 minutes later when the session to promote the tournament ended. He hopped over the net and kissed Petrova on the cheek.

She conceded she had never heard of Pennington, but she was familiar with the Dolphins. She took it easy on him, hitting the ball at half speed and not exploiting his especially weak backhand.

"I'm very impressed,'' she said. "He kept the ball going.''

Pennington said he hadn't hit a tennis ball in 10 years and never played seriously, but his forehand showed promise.

"It's part of playing quarterback - you act like you know what you're doing, but inside you have no idea,'' he said.

With a grunt worthy of Serena Williams, he whacked one shot into the corner for a winner as Petrova laughed.

"The grunt helped me,'' Pennington said. "I laced one. I may incorporate that in my football game - a grunt every time I throw.''

Dolphins' Pennington switches sports, tries tennis

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington picked up a tennis racket Wednesday for the first time since college, and the rust showed.

It wasn't really a fair matchup - he hit with top-10 women's player Nadia Petrova of Russia on the practice courts at the Sony Ericsson Open.

"I'm just going to try to get one over the net,'' Pennington said as he took the court.

He was sweating 10 minutes later when the session to promote the tournament ended. He hopped over the net and kissed Petrova on the cheek.

She conceded she had never heard of Pennington, but she was familiar with the Dolphins. She took it easy on him, hitting the ball at half speed and not exploiting his especially weak backhand.

"I'm very impressed,'' she said. "He kept the ball going.''

Pennington said he hadn't hit a tennis ball in 10 years and never played seriously, but his forehand showed promise.

"It's part of playing quarterback - you act like you know what you're doing, but inside you have no idea,'' he said.

With a grunt worthy of Serena Williams, he whacked one shot into the corner for a winner as Petrova laughed.

"The grunt helped me,'' Pennington said. "I laced one. I may incorporate that in my football game - a grunt every time I throw.''

Dolphins' Pennington switches sports, tries tennis

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington picked up a tennis racket Wednesday for the first time since college, and the rust showed.

It wasn't really a fair matchup - he hit with top-10 women's player Nadia Petrova of Russia on the practice courts at the Sony Ericsson Open.

"I'm just going to try to get one over the net,'' Pennington said as he took the court.

He was sweating 10 minutes later when the session to promote the tournament ended. He hopped over the net and kissed Petrova on the cheek.

She conceded she had never heard of Pennington, but she was familiar with the Dolphins. She took it easy on him, hitting the ball at half speed and not exploiting his especially weak backhand.

"I'm very impressed,'' she said. "He kept the ball going.''

Pennington said he hadn't hit a tennis ball in 10 years and never played seriously, but his forehand showed promise.

"It's part of playing quarterback - you act like you know what you're doing, but inside you have no idea,'' he said.

With a grunt worthy of Serena Williams, he whacked one shot into the corner for a winner as Petrova laughed.

"The grunt helped me,'' Pennington said. "I laced one. I may incorporate that in my football game - a grunt every time I throw.''

Dolphins' Pennington switches sports, tries tennis

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington picked up a tennis racket Wednesday for the first time since college, and the rust showed.

It wasn't really a fair matchup - he hit with top-10 women's player Nadia Petrova of Russia on the practice courts at the Sony Ericsson Open.

"I'm just going to try to get one over the net,'' Pennington said as he took the court.

He was sweating 10 minutes later when the session to promote the tournament ended. He hopped over the net and kissed Petrova on the cheek.

She conceded she had never heard of Pennington, but she was familiar with the Dolphins. She took it easy on him, hitting the ball at half speed and not exploiting his especially weak backhand.

"I'm very impressed,'' she said. "He kept the ball going.''

Pennington said he hadn't hit a tennis ball in 10 years and never played seriously, but his forehand showed promise.

"It's part of playing quarterback - you act like you know what you're doing, but inside you have no idea,'' he said.

With a grunt worthy of Serena Williams, he whacked one shot into the corner for a winner as Petrova laughed.

"The grunt helped me,'' Pennington said. "I laced one. I may incorporate that in my football game - a grunt every time I throw.''

Aliadiere attracts attention

A host of Europe's top clubs are lining up summer moves for Middlesbrough's Jeremie Aliadiere, skysports.com understands.

Middlesbrough are expected to lose a number of their top performers if they end up suffering relegation from the Premier League at the end of the season.

It is thought Aliadiere would not be adverse to a switch as he is keen to continue his career in the top flight.

The news has alerted a number of sides to the possible availability of signing Aliadiere in the summer, with the Frenchman highly-rated on the continent.

Italian duo Roma and Fiorentina along with Spanish side Villarreal and Dutch outfit Twente FC are thought to be eyeing a move for the 26-year-old.

All four clubs are believed to be in the market for a new striker and Aliadiere is one of their top targets.

The interested parties are thought to be exploring the possibility of signing Aliadiere on loan for a season - an option which may suit Boro if they are relegated as they could welcome him back the following season.

Aliadiere joined Arsenal as a 16-year-old from the famed Clairefontaine Soccer Academy and had spells on loan at Celtic, West Ham and Wolves before joining Middlesbrough in 2007.

Dolphins' Pennington switches sports, tries tennis

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) -Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington picked up a tennis racket Wednesday for the first time since college, and the rust showed.

It wasn't really a fair matchup - he hit with top-10 women's player Nadia Petrova of Russia on the practice courts at the Sony Ericsson Open.

"I'm just going to try to get one over the net,'' Pennington said as he took the court.

He was sweating 10 minutes later when the session to promote the tournament ended. He hopped over the net and kissed Petrova on the cheek.

She conceded she had never heard of Pennington, but she was familiar with the Dolphins. She took it easy on him, hitting the ball at half speed and not exploiting his especially weak backhand.

"I'm very impressed,'' she said. "He kept the ball going.''

Pennington said he hadn't hit a tennis ball in 10 years and never played seriously, but his forehand showed promise.

"It's part of playing quarterback - you act like you know what you're doing, but inside you have no idea,'' he said.

With a grunt worthy of Serena Williams, he whacked one shot into the corner for a winner as Petrova laughed.

"The grunt helped me,'' Pennington said. "I laced one. I may incorporate that in my football game - a grunt every time I throw.''