What's up with Angela Haynes?

She looked like a top player when she played Serena really hard at Wimbledon and now she can't qualify for a tournament?

Last week in the Qualifying draw in Cincinnati, Haynes, currently ranked number 109, lost to Ospina, currently ranked number 362!

Today, Haynes, who got a wildcard into the main draw in Stanford, lost to Lisa Raymond in straight sets.

I guess Haynes is just another example of the depth in women's tennis.

Dedric

Well, there are a lot of factors. Lisa Raymond is a very tough opponent, especially because she serves and volleys, a style that is really rare and can get you off your rhythm. Certain people's games don't match as well with particular styles - that's one of the things that's so cool about tennis. There are so many different ways to play the game and styles really do affect outcomes.

Also, Angela played a great match against Serena by really mixing things up ... changing the pace, changing the depth. She's not going to have time to throw all that stuff up against Raymond, who will come in to the net and end points, attacking anything short or soft.

Also, some days you play better than others. Serena wasn't 100% fit in London and Haynes played at her highest level. That's not easy to achieve day in and day out. I wouldn't read too much into this one loss. If Angela keeps focused, she'll start to win matches and move up in the rankings. I hope that she does! I really liked her personality and poise at Wimbledon and would like to see much more of her on the tour.

Like gaga, I wouldn't read too much into any one match, win or loss. Lots of players can threaten a top player on a good day. Just thinking of Serena matches, consider Maria Kirilenko and Emilie Loit. I don't think it's realistic to expect Haynes to develop into an elite player. Those girls generally become factors in the majors in their teens. A Meghann Shaughnessy or Lisa Raymond level career is more on track.