Sania Mirza lost in the Australian open second round in straight sets 3-6, 2-6 to Aiko Nakamura of Japan. Nakamura, who had lost to Mirza in straight sets in Tokyo two years ago ranked 12 places below Sania’s ranking.
Sania’s match started late due to the intermittent rain that interrupted all matches that were scheduled in the outer courts. The rain delay proved to be unlucky for Sania.
Sania started the first set in a good note by breaking Aiko’s serve, but after the first game an erratic display by Sania lead her to the defeat in just over an hour. Sania hit 26 unforced errors and 14 winners compared to Aiko’s 9 unforced errors and 20 winners.Sania is clearly disappointed in the postmatch interview,
“There’s not much you can do when you play like that,” she said. “The court felt like it was too small and I just couldn’t put the ball in.
“I’m obviously disappointed but all players have off days, although it does hurt more because it’s a Grand Slam.”
Sania, however, remained confident about her game.
“I don’t think there is too much for to worry about. I am only 20 and have only been on the tour for two years. I think everyone back home will be disappointed but the fans there are always very supportive. Every match is a learning experience.”
Sania wins doubles first round
Sania’s win in the first round of the doubles alongside Anabel Medina Garrigues gave her something to be happy about after a tough loss in the singles.
Sania and Anabel beat Sandra Kloesel of Germany and Aravane Rezai of France 6-1, 6-4 in the first round match of the doubles competition.
In the second round Sania and Anabel will now play Ekterina Bychkova of Russia and Martina Muller of Germany.
Bychkova and Muller defeated Ukrainian Yulia Beygelzimer and Lourdes Dominguez Lino of Spain 6-1, 6-2 in the first round.
