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Naoko Sawamatsu
Naoko Sawamatsu ( born in March 23, 1973) is a former professional
tennis player. She was the best rival of Kimiko Date, at the peak of Japanese
women's tennis. Her best ranking was World No.14 (February 6, 1995).
Her first victory on the WTA Tour was Singapore Open in 1990.
In 1991 she reached the 4th round of French Open. In Wimbledon 1992, she
lost Jennifer Capriati (3-6, 6-4, 4-6) at the 4th round.
At the time of Australian Open 1995, her family survived
Great Hanshin earthquake (January 17, 1995). She made her best record of
Grand Slam events there. She beat her fellow rival Kimiko Date at the third
round, then lost Arantxa Sánchez Vicario at the quarterfinal.
She retired after her loss at the 2nd round of the Japan
Open after a hard fought loss to Monica Seles 6-3 3-6 6-3. Naoko was a traditional
fighter on court who had a never say die attitude and has had wins over the
following players, Martina Hingis, Lindsay Davenport, Kimiko Date, Mary Joe
Fernandez, Amanda Coetzer, Conchita Martinez and other formidable players.
Since retirement Naoko is still involved in the development
of Japanese tennis.
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