Women to watch at US Open 2008

The last Grand Slam of the season -- US Open 2008 -- is upon us, and it is time to look at the top women contenders for the singles title. Though the tournament is bereft of two of its star attractions, last year's champion Justine Henin (retired) and Russian Maria Sharapova, who has been forced to miss the US Open because of an injury, it still has quality players to pull in the crowds.

Ana Ivanovic
The Serbian, who has reclaimed her No 1 position, hasn't had too much to shout about since her French Open earlier in the year. Ivanovic had to pull out of the Beijing Olympics because of an injury, and one isn't really sure if she is 100 percent fit. However, even a half-fit Ivanovic has the game and ability to add a second Grand Slam to her kitty.

Jelena Jankovic
Jankovic was ranked No 1 for a brief period, but is now back to being No 2. Like her Serbian counterpart Ana Ivanovic, the world No 2 has also been facing fitness problems of late. She certainly has the game and ability to win a Grand Slam, but seems to lack the mental strength to go the distance. Jankovic is also the only one of the top Serbian players not to have won a Grand Slam as yet, and she would be hoping to join Ivanovic and men's World No 3 Novak Djokovic as a Slam champion.

Svetlana Kuznetsova
Kuznetsova hasn't had the best of times on the WTA tour since winning her only Grand Slam title -- the US Open in 2004. Though she is one of the most powerful hitters on the women's circuit, Kuznetsova is also one of the more "weaker" players when it comes to the business-end of big tournaments. Her fans and tennis experts feel Kuznetsova is better than a one-slam wonder, but the important question does the Russian believe so herself?

Serena Williams
The younger of the Williams sisters is arguably the hardest hitter of the tennis ball on the WTA tour. Serena's all-court game and speed always make her a dangerous opponent, and she would love to win the US Open this year -- she last won in 2002.

Venus Williams
Venus hasn't had too much success since winning at Wimbledon earlier this year. But, like Serena, it would not be wise to rubbish her chances of winning the US Open. However, an all-Williams final will not happen at US Open 2008 as the sisters are drawn to be play each other in the quarterfinals, should they both reach that stage of the

Dinara Safina
For a long time, Safina used to be known as Marat Safin's younger sister. But, her success this year has ensured that Safin is now known as Safina's elder brother. This has been a phenomenal year for Safina so far and she would be looking to cap off 2007 with her maiden Grand Slam title.

Source: India Syndicate

Courtesy www.sports.in.msn.com