Serena shocked by Russian in night session in Beijing

No. 2 seed Serena Williams, who was the highest seed left in the draw, was ousted by No. 13 seed Nadia Petrova in three sets, while No. 7 seed Vera Zvonareva closed out her win against No. 10 seed Flavia Pennetta in three sets to get to the quarters in Beijing.

Williams played a sluggish game throughout the match, and in the third set, Petrova gained a 5-0 lead. Williams fought to get back but wasn't able to win, losing the match in a tough tiebreak. The final score was 64 36 76(5).

"I had some opportunities I let slip through my fingers," Williams said after the match. "Had I capitalized on my opportunities, maybe I would've won. But now my goal is just to do well in Doha."

Zvonareva had a tough time against her Italian opponent, but was able to reserve a spot in the quarters after a 63 57 75.

Other winners of the day were No. 12 seed Agnieszka Radwanska, who beat Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez 46 64 62; and No. 14 seed Marion Bartoli, who ousted wildcard Zhang Shuai 61 64.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Singles - Third Round

(13) Nadia Petrova d. (2) Serena Williams (USA) 64 36 76(5)

(7) Vera Zvonareva (RUS) d. (10) Flavia Pennetta (ITA) 63 57 75
(12) Agnieszka Radwanska (POL) d. María José Martínez Sánchez (ESP) 46 64 62
(14) Marion Bartoli (FRA) d. (WC) Zhang Shuai (CHN) 61 64