Sometimes I just have to laugh. Maria went from being 3-6 1-4 down to 17 year old French wildcard Caroline Garcia, to reeling off 11 straight games to take the match 36 64 60. I mean, Jesus, woman. Sometimes you're just such a fucking bitch to your fans.
But before we talk Masha, how about a standing racquet clap for Caroline Garcia. Her forehand is effortlessly HUGE and she's somehow able to find angles on it that are almost Mirza-like. Did you know she was born in Saint-Germain-en-Laye? Do you know who else was born in Saint-Germain-en-Laye? Momo.
Someone needs to start bottling their water. And wine.
Anyway, I was completely floored by the kid. I've got my eye on you, young Garcia. Do it up.
But back to this fucking bitch.
First off, I have to thank Nicole for swapping tix with me so that I could run over to Chatrier and watch this all go down. Let the record reflect that Masha did not lose a game after I put my fat ass into my seat. She also didn't lose a game after my future husband tried his hand at WTA commentary. He should probably stop that. Leave it to your mum, Andy.
With her back against the wall and the entire of France against her, Masha did what she does best: She transformed her frustration into focus. After spending a set and a half struggling with her footwork and leaving the ball short for Garcia to absolutely pound for winners, Masha finally started stepping into the ball, pushing it deeper and deeper and taking control of the rallies. I didn't think Garcia choked in that second set. Masha just stepped it up and didn't give her a chance to crack winners. Once she pocketed that second set the third set bagel was inevitable. Masha believed, Garcia doubted, and the French crowd went dead silent.
It was pretty awesome. I think my facial expression throughout the third set would best be described as "smug".
TAKE THIS, MASHA. TAKE THIS AND SHOVE IT UP THEIR ASSES.
(Pics: Getty)