The tense final set found Molik fighting off two break points for a crucial hold early at 1-2. An exchange of breaks led to the tiebreak where this time it was the plucky Aussie who refused to lose.   With countrywoman Sam Stosur in the stands cheering her on, the 2005 Australian Open quarterfinalist and Olympic bronze medalist brought out her best and proved she still has plenty of heart and game to take on the top players.

The Domino Effect

Wildcard Alicia Molik started it by knocking out the 29th seed.   Taking her cue from the Australian, the qualifier from Great Britain, Elena Baltacha, decided she would follow suit and, in another three set battle, took down the Australian Open semifinalist and No. 7 seed from China, Na Li, saving match points in the deciding tiebreak.

But the biggest surprise was yet to come.  Having made the finals of both tournaments she has played since her return to tennis, much was expected of Justine Henin here in the desert.  Gisela Dulko had other ideas.   Another three sets and Henin was sent packing.

 

Justine Henin in practice on Thursday

“I think I never really found the good rhythm,” the Belgian commented after the match.  “She was playing quite high balls also and I never really found a good timing.”  However, Henin refused to see the loss as a setback.  Insisting she is still transitioning back into the sport, she’s trying to keep her goals simple.  “To try to stay healthy, try to enjoy what I’m doing, and win as many matches as I can.  I know it’s going to take a little bit of time.”

Despite the loss, she is looking forward to Miami, a new ranking and spending some time on court tonight with her idol, Steffi Graf, for the Hit for Haiti exhibition.  “She’s still my idol and inspiration, and an example so it’s going to be great to play with her tonight.  It’s going to be an honor to play with these real legends.  It’s going to be a good thing for me.”

More Friday match photos from BNP Paribas Open