Racket Raised Over Lopsided US Open

Women's bracket is top-heavy, critics charge
By Heather McPherson,  Newser User
Posted Aug 23, 2007 6:11 AM CDT
Racket Raised Over Lopsided US Open
Venus Williams grimaces after disputing a line call during her quarterfinal against Anna Chakvetadze, of Russia, at the Acura Classic tennis tournament Friday, Aug. 3, 2007 in Carlsbad, Calif. Chakvetadze won 6-7 (5), 7-6 (3), 6-2. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)   (Associated Press)

The US Open is sparking controversy even before it begins because of complaints that the women's tournament structure is conspicuously lopsided with all the best players in the top bracket.  "We got all the heavy hitters up top," said analyst Mary Jo Fernandez. Fans argue that the finalist from that top half will be unfairly exhausted from her stiff competition.

The critics also argue that No. 2 Maria Sharapova, the lone star in the lower bracket, will have smooth sailing into the final. The off-kilter assignments also mean the Williams sisters won't meet in a much-anticipated championship match. Meanwhile, Roger Federer could face rival Andy Roddick on the men's side as early as the quarter finals. (More US Open stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X