After participating in the Fed Cup in Beijing in 2002, Elena
Dementieva made her second trip to take part in the US$600,000
China Open WTA tournament from September 17th to 23rd.
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"It is nice experience seeing the city and I am happy to be back
again," the 25-year-old Russian looked forward to her debut in the
Chinese tournament.
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Due to injury, Dementieva didn't perform very well in this year's
Grand Slams, however, the fourth-seeded player of the tournament is
coming back to her best level.
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"This year's Grand Slams were tough for me as I had to recover from
injury. But I do feel much better. I participated in the US Open
series and reached into the semi-final. I like to play in the hard
court. I know this year's China Open will be competitive but I will
try my best."
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Though many tennis stars see the Grand Slams more important than
the Olympic Games, Dementieva, the current No.15 in the WTA
rankings, thinks the most important thing is the team work.
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"I think the Olympic Games is more important. To represent my own
country is an honor to me. I hope I can represent Russia again next
year to participate in the Beijing Olympic Games. So I decide to come here
and know more about the city."
(Xinhua News Agency September 18, 2007)