Kuznetsova not yet a big draw for fans, media
The 22-year-old baseliner caused barely a fuss yesterday as she fronted centre court to half-empty stands.Most of the corporates were at lunch when the match started, but the player they call “Kuzzi” was hardly a major drawcard.
Only 13 reporters turned up for her post-match interview. Put Serena Williams in the main room and 35-40 journalists flock in.
The victory against Frenchwoman Nathalie Dechy yesterday was just as routine. After losing the first two games, Kuznetsova won 6-3 6-1.
With so many glamorous Russians going around, news of her successful passage to the second round hardly had Melbourne Park buzzing.
Asked about slipping under the radar, Kuznetsova said: “I don’t care about my profile. I care about my game.
“I think it was pretty good match. It was slow start. It’s (a) different surface.”
If she is not adored by the public looking for glitz and the superstar factor, at least Kuznetsova is loved in the changerooms.
And being an entertainer in the inner sanctum, a long way removed from her serious on-court persona, is important.
“First thing for me is be a good person before being a good player, you know,” Kuznetsova said.
“Because even if I would be like first in the world, I would get everything, attention and everything, would win everything, and then you’re a s— person it’s not good.
“I mean, I think every like top player, we have great personality, like Justine (Henin), other girls. We are all like good people. For me it’s very important.”
Rivals happily describe Kuznetsova as funster No. 1 in the changerooms.
“I just love to have fun, you know. I’m just happy to live. You know, life is short and you have to enjoy. I make jokes with every girl. I don’t know, I just feel friendly with everybody,” Kuznetsova said. Herald Sun
