Gooooooooold!

Just a damn impressive week from Aravane, who if you remember, started her week by beating Justine, and also knocked JJ, Lucie and Venus in the final on route to the biggest tennis week of her life.
Not much to say. Aravane was taking the ball early, pushing Venus around appropriately, and Venus’ weak movement on clay was pretty obviously exposed. She was just a half step behind, the majority of the time, and her power couldn’t really make up for the movement because she was rarely dictating play.
So big props to Aravane, who is looking like she’ll be top 16 and the highest rank Frenchie going into the French. Which is Sunday. Wut?
With the exception of Mary Pierce and her win in 2000, French hopefuls usually have a hellish time at the French.
Which is why I’m cautious about putting Aravane on the “dark horse” list for RG. Let’s hope she can overcome the media crush and expectations.