The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper The Spokesman-Review
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
Current Temperature
62°F
Current Conditions
Overcast clouds
View complete weather report
Subscribe now

Moya making a move toward top ranking

Carlos Moya reacts after defeating Argentina's David Nalbandian during the final of the men's clay court Italian Open tennis tournament on Sunday in Rome. Carlos Moya reacts after defeating Argentina's David Nalbandian during the final of the men's clay court Italian Open tennis tournament on Sunday in Rome. (Associated PressAssociated Press / The Spokesman-Review)
Associated Press
Carlos Moya reacts after defeating Argentina's David Nalbandian during the final of the men's clay court Italian Open tennis tournament on Sunday in Rome. Carlos Moya reacts after defeating Argentina's David Nalbandian during the final of the men's clay court Italian Open tennis tournament on Sunday in Rome. (Associated PressAssociated Press / The Spokesman-Review)

Carlos Moya began the year aiming for a top-eight finish. After winning the Italian Open and reaching a No. 2 ranking, he might have to rethink his goals.

Moya showed his clay-court mastery in Sunday’s final against David Nalbandian – a commanding 6-3, 6-3, 6-1 victory highlighted by a dazzling between-the-legs shot. The Spaniard’s play was reminiscent of 1998 when he won the French Open.

Shortly after that Roland Garros victory, Moya rose to No. 1 for two weeks in 1999. Now, more than five years later, he’s approaching the top again. Moving from fifth to second in the ATP Champions Race, he trails only Roger Federer.

At 4-0 in the final set, Moya hit the ball through his legs on a short hop at the service line, drawing a roar from the crowd and leaving Nalbandian with a stunned look.

German Open

Hobbling on crutches and hoping for the best, Venus Williams knew she couldn’t play for the German Open title. Whether she’ll be ready for the French Open is uncertain.

Williams pulled out before the German Open final Sunday after twisting her left ankle a day earlier in the semifinals. Her withdrawal handed the title to Amelie Mauresmo.