Svetlana Kuznetsova
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Svetlana Kuznetsova replaced her injured Russian compatriot Elena Dementieva at the last minute in the 2010 AEGON International, and has fallen out of the world's top 10 for the first time since 1996.
The ex-Eastbourne champion, knocked out of the third round at Roland Garros while trying to defend her French Open title, is desperate to rediscover her form for Wimbledon.
I'm delighted to have been awarded this wildcard to Eastbourne, it provides excellent preparation for Wimbledon. It brings back good memories after my victory there in 2004, the courts are fantastic.
Kuznetsova, upset at Roland Garros by Russian Maria Kirilenko, saved four match points before coming back to win her second round match at the 2010 French Open and also saved two match points against Kirilenko. converted her third when Kuznetsova pushed a backhand wide.
Without playing matches, it's hard to win, I still have to find myself out there. I felt so bad in the first set, and then I started to get a little better in the second and third set and then the match finished.
As Kuznetsova had not won consecutive mtches on the WTA Tour since January 2010 before the French Open, so the Russian will be desperate to have a good run at 2010 Eastbourne. But her results on the grass at Devonshire Park has been far from impressive to date.
Reached third round at 2010 French Open.
Chances of winning | Will play defensively as seeking back-to-back wins for only the second tournament of 2010. To capture the title at Eastbourne would be a miracle, with an early exit on the cards.
Factfile
Svetlana Kuznetsova
Date of birth: 27 June 1985
Birthplace: St.Petersburg, Russia
Residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco
Height: 174 cm (5'9'')
Weight: 73 kg (161 lbs)
Turned Pro: 2000
Plays: Right-handed
Past five years @ Devonshire Park
2009 - second round
2007 - qualifying
Eastbourne record: Won 2 Lost 2