Second seed Venus Williams, 8th seed Kim Clijsters and 17th seed Justine Henin moved on Wednesday as the experienced grass court players gave their younger challengers something to think about. Clijsters kept her perfect record against Karolina Sprem in tact with a strong 72 minute 6-3, 6-2 thrashing.

American Venus Williams, winner of five Wimbledon titles, continues to dazzle her opponents and impressive fan base with a 6-0, 6-4 win over young Russian power hitter Ekaterina Makarova. The Russian was the winner at last week’s Eastbourne championship but seemed a bit wild eyed in the first set. When she finally got untracked, Ekaterina played at a higher level. But, even at the Russian’s best, the graceful Venus had all the answers.

Henin seemed to be cruising against Kristina Barrois. The Belgian won the first set 6-3 and raced to a 5-1 second set lead before Barrois took charge. Using her big forehand, Kristina applied pressure with every return. She broke twice to square the second set at 5-5.

Henin then rallied with a backhanded spear to capture the 112th game break before serving out the match. In an oddity, two of the tours three one-handed backhand players faced each other for the second time in two weeks. Henin won last week’s encounter also.

Henin and Clijsters are one match away from a much-anticipated 25th meeting in the fourth round. The pair stand at 12 wins each.

It was tough day for young Americans. Last years darling Melanie Oudin continues to struggle with her serve and players are making hay on the 75 mph second serve. The 33rd seeded Oudin fell to veteran Australian Jarmila Groth 6-4, 6-3.

Meanwhile, Shenay Perry lost to Russian pretty girl Maria Kirilenko 6-1, 6-4. Kirilenko is well positioned to move on and the 27th seed is showing a solid ground attack.

Number thirteen seed Israel’s Shahar Peer had a taped thigh but she battled gamely before falling to Germany’s Angelique Kerber in a 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 battle to the end. In the end, the left-handed Kerber’s forehand was the decisive weapon as she continually moved around her backhand to lash piercing drives.

12th seed

Kim Clijsters Moved to Next Round at 2010 Wimbledon Tennis Chapionships

and 15th seed Yanina Wickmayer notched impressive wins. Wickmayer defeated fellow Belgian Kristen Flipkens 7-6 (9), 6-4.

Similar Posts

A Fateful Friday: The Belgian Perspective

Rising Above the Rust: Sharapova rebounds for three-set win in return to slams

Clijsters – Henin – Belgian Blast # 24