Indian Wells finalists bounce out of SEO women’s third round

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Ana Ivanovic and Vera Zvonareva, the last two players standing at the Indian Wells tournament last week, crashed out in the third round of this week’s Sony Ericsson Open in Miami after losing to Hungarian Agnes Szavay and China’s Na Li respectively, giving a total of five out of the top ten seeded players making an early exit in the $9 million event.

Several stunning upsets were seen so far in the women’s side: third-seed Jelena Jankovic continued her losing streak when she was overpowered by Argentinian Gisela Dulko in the second round. The world number three Serbian will lose ranking points since she was a finalist in this event a year ago. Ninth-seed Nadia Petrova suffered a defeat in the hands of compatriot Ekaterina Makarova (5-7, 1-6).

The highest seeded player making an exit at this point of the tournament was Russian world number two Dinara Safina. It was certainly a lopsided game with Australia’s Samantha Stosur thrashing the Russian in two sets (6-1, 6-4).

Still on course in achieving a record-breaking sixth title in Miami is world number one Serena Williams. Her older sister Venus, a three-time Miami titlist, also progressed to the fourth round. The sisters could possibly meet each other in the semifinals.

For live coverage and updates on the ongoing Sony Ericsson Open, please visit TennisTV.com.