Hingis ousts Davenport

Just two and half months into her comeback after three years off the WTA Tour, Hingis continued her race towards the top of the rankings, showing the quick footwork and inventive play that once made her world number one.

After the taller and stronger Davenport found the range of her big serve and ground strokes in the second set, the Swiss 25-year-old rapidly regained her edge, moving her opponent around the court and retrieving a succession of heavy shots from behind the baseline.

Hingis broke Davenport three times during the set and won the match when Davenport made a mistake on a backhand volley.

Davenport was clearly struggling with a back injury but still gave credit to her longtime rival.

8220;I don8217;t want to take everything from her,8221; the American told reporters. 8220;I know I had to go for big shots, keep the points short, try not to get into longer rallies8221;.