Australian Open Midweek

OK, so we have just joined the rush.

Today's Results:

Jelena Jankovic (Srb) 1 v Marion Bartoli (Fra) 16

1-6, 4-6

Nadia Petrova (Rus) 10 v Vera Zvonareva (Rus) 7

5-7, 4-6

Dinara Safina (Rus) 3 v Alize Cornet (Fra) 15

6-2, 2-6, 7-5

Jelena Dokic (Aus) WC v Alisa Kleybanova (Rus) 29

7-5, 5-7, 8-6

The verdicts

Jankovic v Bartoli

Oh dear Jelly. She didn't do anything too horrendous, it was just she stood by while Bartoli blazed her trail. Jankovic now holds on to her number one spot by the skin of her teeth.

Zvonareva v Petrova

We didn't actually see this match, but the 49 unforced errors in just two sets from Petrova speaks volumes about her performance. Zvonareva's three converted break points out of eighteen chances also talks.

Safina v Cornet

Again, the numbers talk. 52 unforced errors from Safina contributed to two match points for Mlle. Cornet (who we then saw in the stands cheering for Baghdatis, anything going on?), but the Frenchwoman couldn't convert. Nevertheless, Safina's reaction to her victory was not one of joy, but more self-loathing.

Dokic v Kleybanova

So tense. Everyone's favourite Australian/daughter of crazed mad-man just squeaked through after three hours and two minutes fascinating display. Kleybanova fought hard, and would often become a woman possessed when attacking Dokic's serve. However, with the Rod Laver Arena firmly behind her, Dokic found the lines when she needed them. If she is fit for the next match (she almost snapped her ankle in two at one point), she will need much more to get past Safina (if she hasn't murdered herself for her performance today).