Postcard from Singapore: Alicia Molik

From her place in the commentary booth, Australian star Alicia Molik is in a unique position to critique the WTA Finals.

The former world No.8 has enjoyed a box seat for all of the action from the finals – now in their third year in Singapore – and has been impressed with what she’s seen so far.

Molik chatted exclusively to tennismash to give her thoughts on the season-ending event.

Tennismash: who’s looked the best so far now that everyone has played at least one round-robin match?

Molik: “Kerber and Kuznetsova have both been outstanding. Svetlana has the form from Moscow but at the same time the shortest preparation time – less than 24 hours. For any other player that would just about be impossible, but her relaxed nature has proved it to be a positive.”

What have the crowds been like?

“It’s definitely a night crowd here in Singapore, the after-work crowd. Numbers are most definitely up and I really feel there are so many more children floating around the stadium, which really is crucial.”

What’s been your favourite match so far, and why?

“Radwanska v Kuznetsova. It had everything in terms of tennis as well as the drama throughout – Svetlana gave herself a haircut! That doesn’t happen in the middle of a match every day. We have seen so many comebacks too; both first-round matches in the White Group saw match points saved, which is exciting.”

How is the court playing this year?

“It’s playing pretty low. Flat balls carry through but it really grabs spin a little more. The effectiveness of drop shots and short slice is really amplified on this court. This has helped Radwanska so much. It’s actually a great court because points remain long and it’s difficult to hit a clean winner – the fact that players are running down so many balls makes it great tennis to watch.”

Who’s your pick for the title?

“It’s tough to call a winner but Angie Kerber is one player looking so comfortable. So she should, as the No.1 player in the world. She is definitely out to prove a point!”