Svetlana Kuznetsova

• Residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco
• DOB: June 27, 1985
• Birthplace: St. Petersburg, Russia
• Height: 5' 8 1/2" (1.74 m)
• Weight: 161 lbs. (73 kg)
• Plays: Right-handed (two-handed backhand)

Biography

Svetlana Kuznetsova is an all-around player as she has adapted her game to all surfaces. Her game is characterized by her strong serve and her heavy forehand. Kuznetsova's serve is aided by her powerful physique, and she is often considered to be one of the physically strongest players on the tour along with Venus and Serena Williams.

Many tennis experts say that her powerful inside-out forehand is one of the best in the women's game. Kuznetsova is capable of hitting winners of both wings. Her volleys are very effective, and she is capable of producing deft touch.

Her game is strengthened by her footwork and movement around the court. She is among the few players (along with Jelena Jankovic and Kim Clijsters) who are capable of sliding on all the major playing surfaces. She is also capable of producing spectacular shots like running shots, passing shots, and between-the-legs shots when in form, but, on an off-day, her shots can fly all over the court.

Although a Grand Slam champion, Kuznetsova struggles in high pressure matches with the very best in the world and succumbs to her nerves, but she is significantly showing improvement. She is known for her competitiveness and fighting spirit. Tennis Hall-of-Famer Jana Novotná referred to her as a "fighter".

She won the 2004 US Open and 2009 French Open singles titles and was the runner-up in singles at the 2006 French Open and the 2007 US Open.

Career History