AUCKLAND, New Zealand - It was a breakthrough fall season for talented Romanian Monica Niculescu, who went into the US Open ranked No.68 and finished the year No.30. Now she hopes to continue her momentum into 2012 and this week brings us the very first WTA Blog of the year from Auckland.

Alize Cornet, Monica Niculescu

Thursday, January 5, 2011

Hi everyone,

The doubles today was a tough match against good opponents, but I enjoyed it a lot. Me and Alizé played very well with big shots and good interception at the net. All the match was very close but at the end, two points made the difference. The stadium was full. I think we made a good show for the spectators and I had a lot of fun on the court with Alizé! I like playing doubles a lot because I love to play at the net, making volleys and interceptions, and I also like the team spirit. I like singles too because I'm on the court making decisions by myself, finding solutions for different opponents with different game styles. I can't say I prefer one over the other - I like both singles and doubles!

It was my first time playing with Alizé. She is a girl full of energy on the court, like me. I'm playing with my Romanian compatriot Irina Begu in the next two tournaments, Hobart and the AO - this is also a new team.

I just finished my match and am about to go and eat something. I'll answer some of your questions first though and will come back :)

What are your favorite tournaments? Shannon, UK
Australian Open, US Open, Beijing and Stanford.

Did you ever get to meet Fabrice Santoro? Irina, Romania
No unfortunately I never met him, but I would love to!

What would you say is your biggest strength on the court? Jason
I think my biggest strength on the court are my legs.

... I'm flying early tomorrow morning to Hobart. I had a really nice time here in Auckland. I want to thank all the sponsors and all the people who organize this tournament. And of course I would like to say HELLO to all of my fans!!

With respect,

Monica Niculescu

Bye ;)

Monica's Auckland Blog: Wednesday
Monica's Auckland Blog: Tuesday
Monica's Auckland Blog: Monday