It’s pretty obvious that Lindsay Davenport will climb back into the top 10, but encounters with the likes of the Williams sisters and Justine Henin will pitch big against the American giant. So what weapons could she use to win another Grand Slam and break a sturdy opposition?

Davenport’s game plan oozes with beauty and talent and has already seen her to three Slams and counting. Her serve goes deep with ruthless power and can deliver a sting on both sides. The motion has its own unique style and rhythm so when she is on a roll, the serve will keep it going. Lindsay’s returns are notorious for their exceptional depth; she delivers them hard with little mercy.

She is famous for clean strikes on both wings. The forehand can drill down on both sides; the footwork she employs into it makes the hot weapon a superb defensive mechanism. She can use it as a counter attack, which normally comes through as a lasso forehand. The backhand is equally as punishing on short balls and can follow through with dazzling conviction.

'She is one of the most aware players in analysing what happens on the other side of the net and customising her game to suit the circumstances'

Power, footwork, momentum, consistency and clean hitting have built stunning defences and weapons on both wings, a formula for brilliance. Lindsay also brushes up well at the net,  she has plenty of experience in doubles and knows all about dropshots and slices.

Davenport’s mentality is a lesson to us all. So many players have neglected a comeback because of fear of injuries and form. Despite those worries the American made a successful and resilient comeback. She now eyes a full-time return in 2008 and has inspired players like Monica Seles to make a return. Lindsay can work her way through a match with strong tactics and strategies. She is one of the most aware players in analysing what happens on the other side of the net and customising her game to suit the circumstances.

Her biggest competitors will be Henin, the Williams sisters and Maria Sharapova. The most important ingredient for Davenport to seriously challenge Justine at the top spot is to match her brilliant play with consistency. She is strong and has shown in the past that she can be all about consistency.