| Back from Injuries | |
Dateline: 03/13/99
Two of the WTA Tour's biggest forehand hitters have reappeared this year after absences due to injury. This week's Evert Cup at Indian Wells, California has shown Chanda Rubin and Steffi Graf both playing with renewed strength. After a look at their comeback stories, we'll find a few resources to get you patched up for the new season, too.
Finally recovered from her 1996 wrist surgery, Chanda Rubin is off to a great start in 1999. Following upon her second career singles title in Hobart, Australia, Rubin scored a well-earned upset of world number one Martina Hingis on Wednesday. Rubin is streaky, but when her strokes are on target, she's one of the most exciting players on the tour, hitting forehands that mix power, angles, and topspin with devastating effect. On the way to beating Hingis, Rubin took out two other higher-ranked players, Amanda Coetzer and Conchita Martinez.
Steffi Graf has been plagued by injuries throughout her spectacular career. The list of her injuries is almost as long as her incredible list of titles. After a long absence due to wrist, ankle, and other problems, Graf is healthy again. Known for her lethal forehand and powerful serve, Graf also moves like a gazelle and has an extremely effective backhand slice. Rubin cited Graf's backhand as one of the key factors in their match Thursday, which ended Rubin's terrific run. Graf overcame an early Rubin lead to reach the Evert Cup finals, where she will face Serena Williams.
So, how is your body holding up?
If not so well, Dr. Alan E. Cooper won't be surprised. He points out that the unusual motions involved in tennis must be done correctly, or injury is predictable. Further help in avoiding tennis injuries comes courtesy of The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, with a number of smart recommendations. More specific advice is available for problems in your elbow or ankles.
