‘Over-trained’ Ana calls time on wretched season

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 11:46

Ana Ivanovic has brought a wretched 2009 season to an early close, pulling out of next week’s China Open with a respiratory infection.

The former world No.1 described it as “an appropriate ending to a very disappointing season” having felt unwell since arriving in Asia ahead of last week’s Pan Pacific Open, where she crashed out in the first ronud.

A series of minor injuries have blighted the 21-year-old’s season, which Ivanovic believes were the result of being “over-trained” during the early part of the year in which she has not won a single tournament.

“I guess having to withdraw from Beijing is an appropriate ending to a very disappointing season,” said Ivanovic, who in June 2008 had reached the world No.1 ranking after winning the French Open.

“The season was a continuation of going from one disappointment to another”

“I am sorry to my supporters who were hoping to see me play here in Beijing,” she added. “It’s very disappointing for me as well, to come here, see the amazing facility they have and not have the energy to be able to step onto court.”

Ivanovic, who changed her service style after Wimbledon in a bid to protect her shoulder, made a second consecutive first-round exit at the US Open last month.

But despite her poor form since reaching No.1 spot last year, Ivanovic is convinced she can return to the pinnacle of the women’s game in the future.

“Instead of being patient and accepting that my best form was almost impossible due to physical limitations, I was always over-thinking things, and I never dealt with it very well,” the statement on her website continued.

“The season was a continuation of going from one disappointment to another. If I had dealt better with these setbacks, I would have had a lot more success.

“But despite my disappointments there is not a single doubt in my mind that I will reach the top again and win grand slams.

“I have a lot to look forward to. Now is the time to rest, recharge, and come back stronger.”

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