There isn't much you can say about Lindsay Davenport that hasn't already been said. She is one of the most successful players on the WTA Tour.

She has been ranked No 1 in both singles and doubles, winning 87 titles. At slightly over 6ft 2ins she is the tallest woman to ever win a Grand Slam title. In 1996 she won the Gold Medal at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta. Tennis was definitely her calling, but it is not the only part of her legacy.

Lindsay has the most cleanly struck strokes in the history of women's tennis. John McEnroe has said she hits "as clean a ball as I've ever seen, men or women." Her power game is centered on her ground strokes, serve, and return of serve. She likes to take her return of serve inside the baseline, which allows her to have an immediate impact on the point. Breaking serve is usually what wins a player matches. Imagine if Andy Roddick could return as well as he serves. Lindsay has done that and it has helped keep her at the top of the game for a long time.

'Lindsay is the type of player that likes to dictate points, she makes sure that her opponents do most of the running'


Throughout her career people have questioned Lindsay's physical prowess. She doesn't have the mobility of Justine Henin, but exposing Lindsay's lack of speed is easier said than done. She has worked through this problem by stepping up her physical routine and losing weight. Lindsay is the type of player who likes to dictate points; she makes sure that her opponents do most of the running.

Her reputation on tour is impeccable. Lindsay is known by tennis players and fans as being very respectful, thoughtful, and polite. She is always willing to take the time for pictures and autographs with fans. Over the years she has even gained a nickname and  "The Dav" will always be remembered as someone who cared for her fans.

Many people have speculated that Lindsay has seen her best tennis. Retirement is looming, but this month she announced she would return to the tour. She will play doubles in New Haven with fellow American Lisa Raymond. Lindsay's return to singles play will be at the Wismilak International in Bali. She has not played a tournament since last year in Bali. She gave birth to her first child in June, but Lindsay is eager to get back on tour. During the past few years she has learned to appreciate her tennis so much more.

Why retire when you still have a passion for competition? It is never easy to look back and see that you quit too soon. Lindsay is not willing to take that chance. It's not going to be easy, but no-one intimidates her and she knows she can beat anyone. Powerful, legendary and respected are words that perfectly describe Lindsay Davenport, but the word that comes to mind most often is enduring.