Indian Wells Interview
March 13, 2001
ESPN
Pam Shriver: We know our first semifinalist at this year’s tournament—Masters Series Indian Wells. It’s Kim Clijsters of Belgium—one of the most talented players of the Sanex WTA Tour. Kim, you were the more experienced one there despite the fact that you’re a little bit younger than your opponent, but the match was closer than 6-2, 6-2.
Kim: Yes, it was a lot closer, like the games were very close. I had to work very hard to win my own serve games, and then she’s a great server. I had to work hard for every point.
Mary Joe Fernandez: Kim, over the last six months, it really seems like you’ve improved a lot. Your tennis, you’re constructing the points better… What are you looking forward now to take it to the next level?
Kim: Well, I’m working very hard, and I think when I played Filderstadt last year, I beat a few top 10 players, and I think that was another step in my career, and that helped me improve in my game, and I’ve looked at a lot of men’s matches, and I’ve looked at a lot of the top women’s players. I think that helps a lot as well.
PS: Kim, just a few nights ago, you were awarded with the Karen [inaudible] Sportsmanship award, an award that Mary Joe and I always wanted to win, but we never did win!
Kim: (laughing) I’m sorry!
PS: How did that make you feel—to win that award?
Kim: That really meant a lot to me. I’ve had like a—it’s really great that the players vote for me, and that’s what makes it even more special. So it’s great. I mean, I really appreciate it.
MJF: Kim, it looks like you possibly will face Martina Hingis in the semifinals. Any thoughts on that match?
Kim: She’s a great player. I’ve always admired her. I played a good match against her in Sydney. I’ve had some good chances to win a set, but I’m looking forward to going out there, and she still has to win her match, so…
PS: Hey, Kim, congratulations. Thanks for joining us.
Kim: Thankyou.
~Clijsters City
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