On The Baseline does a nice breakdown of the rankings race during the AO:
Entering the Australian Open, four players have a chance of being ranked No.1 at the conclusion of Melbourne.
Points defending at Melbourne: Jelena Jankovic (900, reached 2008 SF), Serena Williams (500, reached 2008 QF), Dinara Safina (4, fell 2008 1r) and Elena Dementieva (280, reached 2008 4r).
With the winner receiving 2000 ranking points, and the top four ranking positions being so close, here are some scenarios:
• If Jelena Jankovic wins, she will remain No.1 regardless.
• If Dinara Safina wins, she will become No.1, regardless.
• If Serena Williams wins, she will become No.1 IF… she does not play Jankovic in the finals.
• If Elena Dementieva wins, she will become No.1 IF … she does not play Jankovic in the finals.
Additionally, with Jankovic winning her first round match at the Australian Open, Safina would need to reach AT LEAST the semifinals, while S.Williams and Dementieva would need to reach the finals to have a chance to become the World No.1.
My gut tells me JJ leaves Melbourne still as the #1 player. But still slamless. Let the catfighting continue.
