OLYMPIC TENNIS TOURNAMENT

August 21, 2004

Anastasia Myskina

THE MODERATOR: First question, please.

ANASTASIA MYSKINA: I wasn't able to recover because I think I gave everything last night. I mean, I gave what I had. Just was not really able to recover it and play again today, so that's the point.

ANASTASIA MYSKINA: You know, like when -- I really was thinking about the gold last night, and I was playing really well last night. But after the match like yesterday, it's really hard to play again. You know, like usually, especially in the tennis, you never play again after you lose. I mean, you have a break couple days. And during the night today, I was thinking about my match. I was really upset, and that's why it was really hard to play today again, so...

ANASTASIA MYSKINA: Yeah, she's improved a lot. I mean, I played her Sarasota last year and I beat her really easy. Since that she improve her serve, baseline strokes. I guess she's become a really aggressive player. And that's really good for her. She's playing really well right now.

ANASTASIA MYSKINA: After yesterday's match, I couldn't really focus today and show everything I had, be at the top of my game. I think I gave everything I had during the game yesterday, which I lost unfortunately. I just wasn't able to recuperate overnight.

ANASTASIA MYSKINA: Emotionally I was drained. It was very difficult to play in those conditions. I didn't have any gas left. I couldn't find my motivation.

ANASTASIA MYSKINA: Well, of course, a lot of very positive feelings, but of course the disappointment from yesterday's game. But I hope -- I think this will overcome this and continue to play well.

ANASTASIA MYSKINA: Well, yes, I did mention this. I even said that I definitely will continue playing to win the gold in four years. I can't say that now. I mean, I don't know. Maybe in the next two years, upcoming two years, I'm going to achieve a lot and then I won't need to wait until the next Olympics.