Shriver Gets a Boost From 1st-Round Win

It wasn’t just a routine first-round victory for Pam Shriver.

Seven months to the day that the 28-year-old underwent shoulder surgery, she was back in the winner’s circle after beating 14th-seeded Isable Cueto of Germany, 7-6 (10-8), 6-4, today in the New South Wales Open.

“I usually don’t get too excited about first-round wins, but this was probably the most important of my career, a little more special,” Shriver said.

Shriver, who has 21 career singles titles and 83 doubles titles, lost her first-round match at Brisbane last week to eventual finalist Akiko Kijimuta of Japan.

Shriver reflected on the decision to have surgery on her shoulder and then attempt a comeback.

“I guess I was rushing to get my career over with, and I didn’t really know where I was going,” Shriver said. “But since I’ve made the decision to have the surgery, I’ve had a very positive attitude. I’m saying there’s some really good tennis in me. I have a good attitude and can still be a force in the game.”