The Only Contest That Counts at Wimbledon

2 years ago

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Mary C. Curtis

National Correspondent

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Even though the world is changing, not much has changed in the world of women's tennis.

As Ria Misra laments, the spokesman for the All England Club has plainly stated, "Good looks are a factor" when scheduling matches for Centre Court at Wimbledon. Crowds will come to see lower-ranked players if they are judged eye candy. That's that.

Who, I wonder, is the judge in this beauty contest? What is the standard? Do blondes trump brunettes, and does willowy win over more muscular frames? It's been a long time since Chris Evert – all ponytail and baseline strokes -- was promoted as the "good girl" over Martina Navratilova's athletic build and game. Anna Kournikova – who achieved greater modeling than tennis success – is semi-retired.

Women are hitting the gym now, working hard for a little muscle tone. Strength is attractive.

It's nice to know that the beauty contest hasn't been a distraction for everyone. Serena and Venus Williams – who look pretty good to me – have figured out that the best route to Centre Court is winning.

They will face each other in the finals.

Filed Under: Woman Up

Tagged: serena williams, SerenaWilliams, venus williams, VenusWilliams, wimbledon 2009, Wimbledon2009

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