The Surprise Rezai Factor

When the entry list for the women's event at this year's Eastbourne tournament was announced a few weeks ago, the name "Aravane Rezai" wasn't exactly the first one that most of us noticed. But after her astounding win in Madrid - coming from a set down to dismiss Henin in the first round, right through to demolishing Venus in the final - she is certainly an eagerly anticipated arrival to the pre-Wimbledon event. Aged 23 and ranked 24 at the start of the Madrid tournament three weeks ago, it was stunning that her phenomenal power finally became consistent. "I don't think I've ever played someone that hits the ball so hard on every shot," said Jankovic, another of her victims that week. "If she keeps this up, she will be unplayable," said a commentator, adding that it's a major "if".
Personally, I'd be extremely surprised if she becomes a multiple Grand Slam winner, but out of almost nowhere she's arguably the most exciting "new" player in the women's game. How consistent she can be is the big question. More will be known after her big match against Nadia Petrova (another Eastbourne title contender) in front of her home crowd at the French Open tomorrow, but win or lose, she's a thrilling prospect.