Game, Set, Match on McHale’s American Dream at the US Open

FLUSHING, New York—Christina McHale lost in straight sets, 6–2, 6–3 on Friday night under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing, New York, against Maria Kirilenko, ending her memorable US Open run.

Kirilenko was in control the entire match, saying post-match, “I think I did everything right today. Even when we had very long points today and I knew what I had to do to win those points.”

McHale never seemed to settle into the match, the setting of such a big match getting to her. “I think it didn't really help me, my nerves, tonight. I never really felt as comfortable as I wanted to feel on the court.”

McHale dropped five of the first six games in the first set, playing back instead of being aggressive. She showed moments of brilliance, specifically in the seventh game when she came back from 0–40 to win after a long rally. But those moments were few and far between.

Kirilenko went to the net 16 times during the first set, winning 14.

McHale got into a better rhythm in the second set, matching Kirilenko point for point for the first six games. She continued to play back and less aggressively and it once again, proved to be her demise.

Kirilenko began having cramps in her right leg halfway through the second set, opening the door for McHale, but the youngster did not realize her opponent might have be on the ropes and didn’t take advantage. “I wasn't sure what it was, but I still feel like she was hitting the ball fine.”

Kirilenko would not elaborate in her press conference other than to say it was a cramp, but she was noticeably trying to stretch it out during the match, even taking a drink during the game.

In the end, McHale’s passive manner proved to be her demise, “I was too passive today. I think the other day I took my chances when I had them. But she was playing well, too, so it made it difficult today.”

McHale walked away from the court without a victory, but she will take with her valuable experience for what should be a bright future for the young American. “I had two really good wins my first two matches. This one, it's disappointing. But I think I just kind of have to take the positives from it and keep working hard and keep going.”

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