Thaindian News

Charleston (US), April 11 (IANS) India’s Sania Mirza and Elena Vesnina of Russia defeated Americans Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Meghann Shaughnessy 6-4, 6-4 to claim the Family Circle Cup, their second WTA doubles title in as many months.

Sania and Elena, who won their first title together at Indian Wells three weeks ago,
had defeated Mattek-Sands and Shaughnessy in that final too.

The Indo-Russian pair Sunday let go of a 5-1 lead in the first set but recovered in time to serve it out. They then squandered a 4-0 lead in the second set and Mattek-Sands and Shaughnessy draw level 4-4. But once again Sania and Elena got their act together in the final stages to close the set and the match.

It was Sania and Elena’s fifth tournament together. It was Sania’s 11th career WTA doubles title and Elena’s fifth.

“It helps as we get along so well,” Sania said. “If either one of us isn’t playing well, you don’t get angry at your friends. We’ve known each other for really long. We’re playing better every day and understanding each other’s games better. When the other one isn’t playing as well, the other picks it up.”

Vesnina complimented Sania for having the best forehand on tour.

“I think Sania has the best forehand on the tour,” Vesnina said, to which Sania quickly said: “I’m not so sure.”

“I see the eyes of the net player who’s guarding the ball from her forehand,” Vesnina continued. “They are thinking, ‘Oh my God, no, the Mirza forehand!’ And then same for me on the backhand.”

Sania praised the powerful backhand of her partner.

“Elena has a lethal backhand and obviously the forehand is my strong shot. Opponents kind of run out of ideas what to do, considering they have only half the court to play in,” Sania said. “I think we’ve improved our volleys and are more confident. With confidence you start to poach more and do stuff normal doubles players do. And since we’re so heavy off the ground, it’s easier for the player at net.”