Shahar Peer Makes Statement in Dubai

Written by Mike McIntyre | 15 February 2010

Shahar Peer of Israel made the most of her first opportunity to play tennis in the United Arab Emirates, by defeating 13th seeded Yanina Wickmayer 3-6, 6-2, 7-5 in the opening round of the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships. It was her first career victory over Wickmayer - one of the hottest players on tour so far in 2010.

Despite a slow start, Peer rebounded to win the final two sets and advance to the second round where she will face last year's finalist, Virginie Razzano of France.

"There are a lot of emotions coming after this win. It's more than beating Yanina, it's more of me handling all the stuff around and able to put everything on the side and just play tennis, and just concentrate on the (match) and not the politics," Peer said.

This is a big step forward for Peer, as well as the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour and the tournament itself. A year ago Peer was denied entry to the country due to supposed safety concerns. The real reason was the fact that Peer was from Israel and the Emirates does not allow Israeli's to acquire a visa to visit the country.

Monday's match against Wickmayer featured heavy security that included metal detectors for all spectators and several plain-clothes policemen in the crowd.

While this is certainly a sign of progress, Peer's coach, Pablo Giacopelli, has told the media that Peer is only allowed to travel between her hotel and the tournament venue. Not exactly being welcomed with open arms, is it?

Still, Peer has handled the situation with nothing but a positive attitude. She was clearly very pleased with the outcome on day one.

"I really wanted to win this match, not only because of tennis, but because I want to make a statement that politics and sport should not be involved."

The statement has been heard loud and clear. Bravo Shahar.