Dementieva makes the quarters - 18e Open GDF SUEZ - 2010 - Tennis Féminin

Elena Dementieva feels good this year in Paris. Number 1 seed in the tournament after the forfeit by Serena Williams, the Russian player never had so much going for her this early in the event. She knows it, and assumes it completely. World N° 7 also noticed with joy that she was the only one to be on the poster for the 18th Open GDF SUEZ across all of Paris. In good condition, despite her early elimination from the Australian Open against Justine Henin (2nd round), Dementieva is hungry for victory and senses that this could be the year for her at Coubertin.

Several times quarter finalist and semi-finalist at Coubertin, the Russian intends to finally triumph in Paris and take the plunge. A final step she was so close to reaching last year, but Amélie Mauresmo, in a state of grace, got there first. To finally reach the trophy, she only needs to shake three more hands across the net. She made a successful entry Wednesday afternoon before a crowd full of children, thanks to her compatriot Anatasia Pavlyuchenkova, beaten 6-4, 6-4, in the 2nd round, just like last year at the same time. Now she is in the quarterfinals after a serious match.

Pavlyuchenkova flags at crucial moments

At only 18 years of age, Pavlyuchenkova has the qualities and faults typical of her young age. It was so obvious on Wednesday. Ranked World 38, the Russian held up to Dementieva during the first set with an early break then by catching up with a conceded advantage. 2006 Junior world Champion, Pavlyuchenkova hits hard in all areas, but could improve concentration at decisive moments. Just when things were levelling off at 5-5, after being led 2-5, and while she was in the lead at 40-30 on her serve, three faults came to punish her lack of strength. Pushed to  fault by Dementieva, she made a double fault on the first ball in the set (6-4).

Same thing in the second set. Behind 1-4, Pavlyuchenkova braves a 4-4 by hitting full steam ahead while Dementieva slightly loses concentration. At 5-4, as in the first set, Pavlyuchenkova flags when she makes three distance faults. Dementieva concludes with a winning backhand after 1h23 of play. After a day of rest, she will face Aravane Rezaï or Andrea Petkovic on Friday. A duel with the Frenchwoman would be most delicious.