University of Georgia Athletics
Georgia's Robinson Falls in US Open Qualifying
August 19, 2003 | Women's Tennis
Aug. 19, 2003
FLUSHING, N.Y. -- University of Georgia freshman Shadisha Robinson was eliminated in the US Open women's qualifying event Tuesday, falling to Amandine Dulon of France 6-3,6-2.
Dulon, ranked number 253 in the world, overcame a slow start and converted on five of 11 break point opportunities to advance. Robinson, a native of South Ozone Park, N.Y., said she was disappointed in her showing especially in front of many family and friends.
"I didn't play well, nothing was really working, I felt like I gave away the match, " said Robinson who earned a wild card into the event as one of the top American junior players. "This was a big opportunity and I didn't live up to my expectations."
Robinson had a chance to go up 4-2 but the 21 year-old Dulon rallied back to take that game plus the next three for the first set. Trailing 5-3, Robinson saved a couple of match points before Dulon closed it out.
Robinson's first serve percentage was better then Dulon (75 percent to 54 percent) but Dulon won 81 percent of the points on her first serve compared to just 51 percent for Robinson. Also, Robinson had only three break point opportunities in the match and converted on one.
"It was a fun trip, but I was hoping to do better with everyone who was there cheering me on," said Robinson.
With fall semester classes beginning at UGA Monday, Robinson first had to make the decision whether or not to play in the event.
"I was excited about the chance to play but stressed out about missing the first few days of school," said Robinson. "I had to take care of a few things before I left and now I'm going to try and get a flight out tonight to make it back Wednesday."
Robinson is one of three newcomers on this year's Bulldog squad. Georgia's first fall event will be the Bulldog Invitational Sept. 26-28.
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