Doha 2: Dinara's Day

A few days ago over at ESPN, Pete wrote a blog entry about what these season-ending championships mean for the beleaguered world No. 1, Dinara Safina. I agree with our chieftain that if she won Doha, it would provide some relief, joy, and vindication after such an emotionally stressful year. But wouldn't it also put additional pressure on her heading into the 2010 Australian Open? Clearly, that's the last thing she needs. But a solid performance this week almost ensures that Safina arrives in Melbourne as the top seed, and with that comes the monotonous questions and stories penned about her well-documented troubles of the past. I can almost see the tears now.

However, Safina might not have to worry about this -- if that's a good thing. I'm not expecting much from her in these championships; maybe a semifinal berth, but I anticipate this being Elena's or Serena's event. You have to admire what those two accomplished in Day 1.

Here's today's three matches:

White Group

*- Caroline Wozniacki vs. Victoria Azarenka

• Dinara Safina vs. Jelena Jankovic*

Maroon Group

- Serena Williams vs. Venus Williams

This is your place to chat about today's matches and anything else tennis.

-- Ed McGrogan, TW Contributing Editor