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Serena's rage didn't overshadow Clijsters' run

Belgian's title impressive, but it also revealed how flawed women's game is

Image: Kim ClijstersGetty Images
Kim Clijsters became the first unseeded player ever to win the U.S. Open women's singles championship.

While the uproar detracted from Clijsters' semifinal victory, it didn't overshadow her overall win. The championship match was enveloped in a celebratory air, especially as Clijsters celebrated with husband Brian Lynch and 18-month-old daughter Jada after the trophy presentation.

While Clijsters' retirement was propelled by her desire to start a family, her return to the sport shows she still has the desire and drive needed to compete at the highest level. What's more, she's proven she can combine those two important elements of her life without sacrificing either one. Her championship victory will serve as a powerful motivating force and open up even more doors for her.

When starting her comeback, Clijsters had to have been plagued by some doubts about how quickly and how successfully she could return to playing at an elite level. Now that she's recorded big wins over top players in such a short period of time -- and looked so good doing it -- she knows how much more she can achieve. Winning Wimbledon has always been a huge goal for Clijsters, as has earning a major title outside of New York. Those aims are well within her reach. She's sturdy in terms of technique, fitness and mentality.

Just 26 years old, Clijsters now appears to be committed to tennis for the long haul. She is great for the game, and the sport needs more players like her.

Final thoughts
Caroline Wozniacki impressed many with her U.S. Open run, proving she's a solid and consistent player. Not only does she have deep top-spin shots, but she also is a smart player with great court presence. To win her first Grand Slam title, though, the Danish teen will need to develop at least one shot in her arsenal with which she can finish off points. By getting more power and penetration on points, she will be much more of a threat. There's no reason why she can't achieve a go-to, point-ending weapon.

While both were shut out in the singles draw, Venus and Serena Williams didn't leave New York without a trophy. They teamed up to knock off the No. 1 women's doubles team of Cara Black and Liezel Huber by identical 6-2, 6-2 scores. Not only was it the sisters' 10th Grand Slam doubles title, but it also was their third major doubles title this year.

While Venus and Serena used to play singles on a doubles court, now they look like a true team. They're moving well together and anticipating shots and covering the court better than ever. Plus they also really seem to enjoy competing together. Their Grand Slam doubles titles total should continue to rise.

© 2012 NBC Sports.com  Reprints


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